Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Army renews commitment to achieve lasting peace in Samar

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 18): Army renews commitment to achieve lasting peace in Samar

The Philippine Army’s 87th Infantry Battalion (IB) renewed their commitment to promote peace and fight insurgency in this economically-depressed province, formerly known as hotbed of communist guerrillas.

“We will push and accomplish the mandate and vision of this program in a proactive way to promote peace and development in the area even if the lives of our soldiers are at stake and do our best to protect the people,” said Lt. Col. Antonio Dulnuan, Jr., commander of the 87th IB based in Calbiga Samar.

Serving one the largest provinces in the country, the 87th IB stands as frontlines against the rebels in the area despite hardships and challenges of being soldiers, they selflessly continue to persevere to protect the people of Samar, according to Dulnuan.

“Our heroism does not end in safeguarding the communities they are assigned to. Beyond standing their guard and doing their typical combat operations, we also plant the seeds of hope in different communities by empowering the people,” he added.

The battalion has also forged partnership with local government units and non-government organizations to provide support to farmers.

Among the battalion’s major activities is supporting the logistics in bringing commodities, education, and other essential services needed for underprivileged people from far flung villages in Samar.

“From watching guard through the night and community builders in the day, these soldiers deliver what ought to be delivered to their fellow Filipinos. They don’t have superpower. They are ordinary soldiers doing simple acts of greatness. They only think of a better today-not only for them and their families but for everybody else,” Dulnuan explained.

For Cpl. Zaldy Macalde of 87th IB, he always believes that service builds a stronger sense of community, and among families.

“Everything we have is a gift. All we need to learn about is taking care of each other. It makes me feel useful, happy and contented when you do something good for others,” Macalde added.

For Pfc. Antonio Sanico, they don’t regard their sacrifices as a requirement, homework, or burden. What is important is that they voluntarily do something for others.

“I take the Gospels literally, to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and build house for the homeless. It is an apostolate that ties family, volunteerism and work all together. My aim is to see Christ in everyone, especially in the poor,” Sanico stressed.

The battalion’s community development projects benefited the residents of remote villages of Basey, Motiong and San Jose de Buan in Samar.

“They work very hard and it makes us proud to see our soldiers come out here without expecting a reward except personal gratification,” said Mabini village chief Nilda Pacaanas of Basey town. “I cannot thank them enough for all they’ve done for us.”

The soldiers receive a very humbling reward - local students, teachers and parents offer their thanks, children shared smiles with soldiers that day as a strong, unified community.

“I was surprised when I saw people smiling and to me, that made the whole thing worth it,” 2nd Lt. Jessel Anombay said.

“The path has been long and hard, and there are still many hurdles ahead, not least the ongoing tensions in Samar. There should be no doubt about our aims. Our objectives and obligation is to protect civilians and to work for a durable peace that meets the legitimate aspirations of people,” Lt. Anombay added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=736784

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