More than 33,000 barangays across the Philippines have attained stable internal peace and security, Malacañang announced on Wednesday, November 4. The milestone highlights the administration’s ongoing push to combat insurgency through targeted development programs and the expansion of basic government services.
The announcement precedes the 10th Executive Meeting of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), presided over by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Malacañang alongside Cabinet members and task force officials.
During a press briefing, Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro reported that 33,381 barangays spanning 62 provinces and nine regions have now reached stable internal peace and security status.
Castro underscored that Marcos remains focused on ensuring that economic opportunities and government services penetrate remote communities.
“Siguraduhin na maabot sa bawat barangay ang serbisyo at oportunidad ng pamahalaan, mula sa mga paaralan at kalsada hanggang sa trabaho at kabuhayan. Ito ang malinaw na mensahe ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. sa NTF-ELCAC,” she said.
Infrastructure and Community Development
To address the root causes of insurgency and foster enduring peace, the government has funneled ₱44.9 billion worth of development projects into 5,638 barangays, directly benefiting an estimated 16.8 million Filipinos.
Completed infrastructure projects under this initiative include:
- 1,601 kilometers of farm-to-market roads
- 1,182 water and sanitation systems
- 978 classrooms
- 556 health stations
Environmental Resilience in Balanga City
Shifting focus to climate resilience, Castro highlighted Balanga City as a model of successful collaboration between national agencies, local governments, and local residents.
Past issues—such as illegal mangrove cutting—had left communities vulnerable to coastal erosion, severe flooding during high tides and storms, and declining fish yields that impacted local fisherfolk. Through joint efforts led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), local authorities, and the community, extensive mangrove rehabilitation has been carried out.
The restored mangroves now function as natural buffers against storm surges and strong waves, protecting vulnerable coastal settlements while reviving local fishing livelihoods.
Castro noted that the initiative aligns directly with President Marcos’ broader directive to strengthen national climate change responses and safeguard the environment to protect public safety and future generations.