From the Philippine Information Agency (May 27): AFP remains on heightened alert in N. Cotabato
Peacekeeping forces especially the military in North Cotabato remains on heightened alert against possible retaliation of members of the New People’s Army (NPA).
This is according to Capt. Manuel Gatuz, spokesperson of the 57th Infantry Battalion, after the lawless elements’ rumored attack following their failed offensive on Tuesday dawn last week in President Roxas town.
“We have additional forces assigned to different villages particularly in President Roxas,” Gatuz noted adding that they also strengthen their close coordination with the PNP.
Further, he stated that they have issued hotline numbers for faster communication in case of emergency.
Meanwhile, the official emphasized that the situation in President Roxas are now in their control and that they are continuously monitoring the area.
On the other hand, Gatuz said that the military is steadfast in the promotion of the peace and development program in far-flung areas of the province to counter insurgency.
“Together with the local officials of the villages, we are going to different areas giving information to residents on the programs and projects of the government which they can avail of,” he explained.
Through this, Gatuz said that the villagers especially the indigenous people can also have the chance to express and extend their opinions and complaints to the government.
He also encouraged rebels to be one with the government instead of creating conflict as there are programs intended for them in case they surrender their firearms.
“There is the ‘Balik-baril Program’ of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) where lawless elements are granted with cash assistance in exchange of their firearm,” the official noted.
Gatuz is hopeful that with this, insurgency problem in the country will be solved because after all, the fighting forces are both Filipinos.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=2301401160570
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