Army to use ‘bayanihan’ in fight against terror

From the Manila Bulletin (Nov 6): Army to use ‘bayanihan’ in fight against terror

The Philippine Army—particularly the Community Organizing for Peace and Development (COPD) of the 75th Infantry Battalion (75th IB)—is going to fight terror the old fashioned way, through “bayanihan.”

The Army is determined to continue its peace and development program, especially in far-flung and remote highland communities in Agusan del Sur province and neighboring areas, by bringing the government closer to the people.

“The army will continue to push the peace initiatives in order to cease terroristic activities of the New People’s Army (NPA),” stressed Lt. Col. Noman Alcovindas, commanding officer of the 75th IB.

He said their unit will continue to closely coordinate with the local officials and all line agencies of the government to bring basic services to the villagers and to “liberate” village communities from the forced taxation allegedly imposed by the NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

“We will push with this program even if the lives of our soldiers are at stake,” stressed further Col. Alcovindas.

“We will accomplish the mandate and vision in a proactive way to promote peace and development in the area and do our best to protect the people,” he said.

http://www.mb.com.ph/army-to-use-bayanihan-in-fight-against-terror/