“Peace is both a Gift and a Responsibility”: Vice Gov. Odiem says Peace gains must be protected by every iKalinga

Tabuk City, Kalinga — Following the formal declaration of Kalinga under the State of Stable Internal Peace and Security (SSIPS), Vice Governor Atty. Dave Odiem reminded iKalingas that the peace achieved in the province must be protected, preserved, and passed on to the younger generation through shared responsibility.

During the declaration ceremony on May 12 at the Kalinga Astrodome, the seal of SSIPS was conferred upon the provincial government of Kalinga after insurgency threats in the province were successfully neutralized through the cooperation of the government and the people.

In his remarks during the historic event, Odiem described Kalinga’s transition into an insurgency-free province as proof that safer communities can be built when people are united and guided by a shared vision for justice and progress.

He further stressed that the declaration should not be treated as the end of Kalinga’s journey toward peace, but as the beginning of a new chapter focused on sustaining and protecting it.

“The formal declaration of our province as a state of stable internal peace and security is a testament to the resilience, unity, and courage of our people. It is proof that when we stand together, guided by the vision of a just society, we can build secure communities and empower people to shape our own future. Today's declaration is not the end of our journey, but the beginning of a new chapter — a chapter where peace is sustained, where justice is upheld, and where every Kalinga family can live with dignity and hope,” Odiem said.

For this reason, Odiem encouraged constituents to continue working hand in hand in sustaining peace and upholding justice for the benefit of every family and future generations.

“May this day remind us that peace is both a gift and a responsibility that we must cherish, protect, and pass on to future generations. I believe that with peace sustained, justice will prevail and progress for Kalinga will continue without end,” he added.

The Vice Governor also expressed gratitude to all stakeholders whose relentless efforts helped make Kalinga free from armed conflict.