PDC Aklan Honored for Advancing Peace and Development Partnerships

KALIBO, Aklan- The 82nd Infantry (Bantay Laya) Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division of the  Philippine Army formally recognized key development partners during the PAGPAPASAEAMAT 2026 Stakeholders’ Award Ceremony held at Marzon Hotel on January 29, 2026, highlighting the vital role of local institutions in sustaining peace and advancing development initiatives across the province.

Among those honored was Aklan’s Provincial Planning and Development leadership, headed by Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator Engr. Roger M. Esto, Doctor of Public Administration, for strengthening coordination between development planning and peace-building efforts in the province. The recognition underscores the contribution of the Provincial Planning and Development Office in aligning local development programs with peace and security objectives.

The Provincial Government of Aklan, under the leadership of Jose Enrique M. Miraflores, was likewise commended for its continued support in maintaining peaceful and resilient communities across the province. Recently, the Province of Aklan also received recognition from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) for Excellence Safety, Peace and Order, further affirming the province’s commitment to fostering safe, stable, and inclusive communities through strong collaboration among government agencies and stakeholders.

Through collaborative governance, the province continues to reinforce initiatives that promote safety, stability, and inclusive development in partnership with national agencies and local stakeholders. A significant milestone was the inclusion and alignment of peace and order initiatives within the Provincial Peace and Order and Public Safety (POPS) Plan, which was approved by the 20th Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Aklan on October 8, 2025.

This integration ensures that programs and partner organizations supporting peace-building efforts are formally embedded in provincial development strategies, strengthening coordinated responses to local peace and security concerns.

The ceremony emphasized that sustained peace and progress in Aklan are achieved through partnerships among government agencies, civil society, and community stakeholders, with development planning serving as a crucial foundation for long-term stability. Provincial officials also conveyed their appreciation for the continuing partnership and support extended by the Philippine Army in fostering safe and peaceful communities throughout Aklan.

“Thank you, Philippine Army, for your steadfast commitment to peace and development in our communities!,” Esto said.