ZAMBOANGA CITY, Nov. 20 -- The municipal council of Lumbaca Unayan in Lanao del Sur declared the area free from the influence of the terror Dawlah Islamiya-Maute Group (DI-MG) remnants and the communist New People's Army (NPA), the military said Thursday.

Lt. Col. Jerry Gaviola, commander of the Philippine Army's 64th Infantry Battalion, said the declaration was made through Municipal Council Resolutions 16 and 17, which were passed on the same day.

Gaviola said the declaration symbolizes the community's collective stance against terrorism and local armed groups.

"Today marks a turning point for our municipality. By standing together, we send a powerful message that we will never allow fear, violence, or extremism to rule our community...