Sulu Declared Under Stable Internal Peace and Security
Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay - Sulu marked a significant milestone in its peace and security efforts on September 24, 2026, after all 19 municipalities in the province were formally declared under a State of Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS).
The declaration was made during a ceremony at the Sulu Provincial Capitol Gymnasium in Patikul, attended by Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr., Sulu Governor Abdusakur A. Tan II, Vice Governor Abdusakur M. Tan, local government officials, and representatives of the security sector.
The ceremony highlighted the province’s continuing transition from decades of armed conflict toward a period focused on sustaining peace, strengthening governance and expanding opportunities for its communities.
A total of 504 firearms were turned over during the ceremony as part of continuing efforts to reduce the presence of unauthorized weapons and support the province’s peace and security initiatives.
The surrender of firearms was presented as a demonstration of community participation in efforts to maintain peace and prevent the resurgence of armed conflict.
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Secretary Teodoro underscored the national government’s commitment to supporting Sulu as it moves toward long-term development. He emphasized that maintaining peace must go hand in hand with investments in infrastructure, power, connectivity, education, basic services and other programs that can create opportunities for the Tausug people.
The defense secretary also noted that the role of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Sulu will continue to evolve alongside the province’s improving security situation, with the military maintaining its role in supporting peace and security while also strengthening its capacity for humanitarian assistance and disaster response.
Governor Tan likewise emphasized the connection between peace and development, describing a peaceful Sulu as a foundation for progress and improved opportunities for its people.
The SIPS declaration follows years of government and community efforts to address armed conflict and security challenges in the province. While the declaration reflects an assessment of improved and stable security conditions, government agencies and security forces continue to maintain vigilance and operations to preserve the gains achieved.
The milestone also places greater emphasis on the next phase of Sulu’s development, including stronger local governance, improved public services, infrastructure development, economic opportunities and continued community participation in maintaining peace.
With all 19 municipalities now covered by the SIPS declaration, provincial and national officials are expected to continue working together to sustain peace and translate the province’s improved security conditions into long-term development opportunities for its residents.
