The city government here through the Sangguniang Panlungsod
(city council) has expressed its support to the community immersion and civic
actions of the 82nd Infantry Battalion (82IB) of the Philippine Army in 20
villages here.
In today’s appearance before the regular session of the SP,
Lt. Col. Enriqueto R. Deocadez Jr. said that they are purely into civil
military operations (CMO) as part of their Internal Peace and Security Efforts
(IPSE).
A criteria was set to identify the 20 target villages namely
Bitoon, Tacas, Tabuc Suba, Democracia, Sambag, Dungon A, Dungon B, Punong,
Progreso, Sinikway, Ingore, Lapuz Norte, Calajunan, Navais, Sooc, San Antonio,
San Pedro, Bonifacio, Sto. Nino and North Baluarte .
Deocadez stressed that they have just kicked off their
activities last March 10 and they were still on the assessment stage of the
five initial villages. It was temporarily put on hold four days ago amid
questions that were raised as to their presence in the city.
Among the activities that they are supposed to undertake are
immersion, area assessment, community assistance, school activities, education,
empowerment of the populace, assistance to law enforcement activities and other
activities related to disaster preparedness.
Meanwhile, councilor Jason Gonzales who sponsored the
resolution of support said the initiative of the Philippine Army is "a
very commendable peace time activity" especially that they have
considerable resources that they can use in the effort.
Councilor Eduardo Peñaredondo also lauded the Philippine
Army saying that they are putting to good use their time.
Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog also welcomed their presence as
long as they “follow the rules and regulations of the city.”
Deocadez was requested by the city council to explain
following a privilege speech by councilor Joshua Alim last week questioning
their presence in the city.
The battalion commander added that they will seek
representation during the regular meeting of the Iloilo City Peace and Order
Council next month so they could resume with their activities.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=747670
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.