Misamis Occidental – Governor Henry S. Oaminal of Misamis Occidental was recently awarded the Gawad Parangal by the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) for his leadership in promoting peace and development in the province. The award was presented during the 6th NTF-ELCAC Founding Anniversary at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Friday.

The event was attended by key officials, including National Security Adviser Eduardo M. Año, NTF-ELCAC Executive Director Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr., and DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan. The theme of the event, “Building Peace Better,” highlighted the achievements of the past six years in addressing armed conflict and fostering national unity.

Governor Oaminal thanked the people of Misamis Occidental, local officials, and partner agencies for their collective efforts in achieving the province’s peaceful transformation. He emphasized that the award reflected the progress made in declaring Misamis Occidental an insurgency-free province.

“This achievement is a product of the teamwork between our communities, local leaders, and partner agencies. We are proud of how far we’ve come, and we will continue working together to build a peaceful and prosperous future,” Oaminal said.

NTF-ELCAC Chairperson, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., represented by Secretary Año, expressed appreciation for the collective efforts of local governments, law enforcement, and community groups in achieving lasting peace.

Under Governor Oaminal’s leadership, Misamis Occidental has adopted a whole-of-nation approach to development, focusing on social, economic, and security reforms. This approach aligns with the province’s vision of Misamisnon Magpuyong Malinawon, Malambuon, ug Malipayon (Peaceful, Progressive, and Happy Misamisnon).

The Gawad Parangal is given to individuals and local governments that have shown significant contributions to ending local armed conflicts and advancing peace initiatives. Governor Oaminal’s leadership and the province’s commitment to peace have been crucial in reaching these milestones.

With continued efforts, the provincial government aims to maintain progress and ensure lasting peace and stability for future generations.

The Gawad Parangal recognized significant contributions to NTF-ELCAC’s mission of sustainable peace and development. (SN/PGMO)