Bodong shields Tinglayan: ‘Our indigenous peace pact helped the town attain Insurgency-Free Status’ - Mayor Abay

Tinglayan, Kalinga – Through collective effort, unity, and steadfast adherence to the Bodong system, the Municipality of Tinglayan has officially attained insurgency-free status as of May 26, 2026.

Led by Mayor Charles Abay, the municipality unveiled its State of Stable Internal Peace and Security (SSIPS) marker on May 26, marking a significant milestone in its successful campaign to eliminate insurgency influence in the area.

Mayor Abay attributed the achievement to the community’s strong commitment to the Bodong system, which he described as the foundation of tribal unity, justice, and peacekeeping in Kalinga. He emphasized that community elders, local officials, and educators continue to pass on the sacred indigenous tradition to younger generations, ensuring its enduring role in maintaining peace.

“Daytoy Bodong system tayo gamin ket it covers everything. Isuna iti pinaka-foundation iti agtultuloy nga talna. Ket tatta we are officially insurgency-free gapu daytoy adherence tayo iti Bodong tayo nga isu iti ipaspasa dagiti elders, opisyales, ken educators tayo kadagiti u-ubbing,” he said.

Abay added that, aside from the values upheld through the Bodong system, the municipality’s close partnership with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) played a crucial role in strengthening local initiatives against insurgency.

“Agyaman tayo met lang kadagiti army ken kapulisan tayo ta isuda met iti duwa kadagiti pinaka-partner tayo kadagiti initiatibo tayo tapnu agtalinaed iti linak ken talna iti ili tayo nga Tinglayan,” he said.

The declaration of Tinglayan as insurgency-free highlights the municipality’s sustained efforts to preserve peace and security through a combination of indigenous governance, community cooperation, and collaboration with law enforcement agencies.