Misamis Occidental Governor Henry Oaminal Sr. received the Gawad Parangal from the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-Elcac) in recognition of 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.
The Gawad Parangal is given by the NTF-Elcac to individuals and local governments that have shown significant contributions to ending local armed conflicts and advancing peace initiatives.
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 National Security Adviser Eduardo Año, expressed appreciation for the collective efforts of local governments, law enforcement, and community groups in achieving lasting peace.
The theme of the event, “Building Peace Better,” highlighted the achievements of the past six years in addressing armed conflict and fostering national unity, and was attended by key officials, including Año, NTF-Elcac Executive Director Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr., and Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan.
For almost four decades, Misamis Occidental was a hotbed for rebel activity. It was only recently, on September 27, 2024, that President Marcos declared the province of Misamis Occidental free from insurgency. The final stretch of the liberation from insurgent forces happened during the gubernatorial term of Oaminal.
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).
“True peace and order can only be achieved if there is an adequate supply of livelihood opportunities, backed up by constant support from the government through quality education,” Oaminal concluded. “If local governments like ours continue to meet the needs and support the aspirations of our constituents, then it will be much easier for all of us to find harmony in our communities.”
