Army integration program of the Cordillera peace process to complete today

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 9): Army integration program of the Cordillera peace process to complete today

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the parties involved in the implementation of the 2011 Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Cordillera Bodong Administration (CBA)-Cordillera People’s Liberation Army (CPLA) are set to complete the Army integration component of the Cordillera peace process today.

The ceremonies will be held at the 5th Infantry Division (ID) headquarters in Camp Melchor F. Dela Cruz in Upi, Gamu, Isabela.

According to the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) Undersecretary Atty. Maria Cleofe Gettie C. Sandoval, this 5th ID-Philippine Army initiative, highlights the accomplishment of the security sector in complying with the directive of President Benigno Simeon Aquino III to put the armed component of this peace table to a close.

“We welcome the efforts of the AFP and the Philippine Army to accomplish this component as directed by the President. Specifically, we commend the 5th ID for ensuring an inclusive process to bring this component to completion by reaching out to all those who participated in the Cordillera struggle, regardless of factions or affiliations,” Sandoval noted.

Today’s ceremony marks the successful completion of the Army integration component of Cordillera peace process as provided by Executive Order no. 49 (EO 49) issued in 2011 by President Aquino.

EO 49 mandated the cooperation of all concerned government agencies in the implementation of the 2011 MOA/Closure Agreement. By virtue of EO 49, the Department of National Defense and the AFP is tasked to wind down programs under Administrative Order no. 18 (AO 18), series of 2001, including the Army integration and livelihood programs for the former Cordillera rebel group.

A total of one hundred sixty-eight (168) Army integrees are set to march at the 5th ID Grandstand to herald the end of the Army integration program.

According to 5th ID Chief Maj. Gen. Lysander A. Suerte, among those expected to attend the ceremonies include all six governors of the Cordilleras, regional heads of Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) partner agencies, partners from the CBA and Cordillera Forum for Peace and Development, Inc. (formerly CPLA), and members of civil society organizations.

Philippine Army Chief Lt. Gen Eduardo M. Año, and OPAPP Secretary Teresita Quintos Deles are also expected to witness the event. (OPAPP)

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3001446980172/army-integration-program-of-the-cordillera-peace-process-to-complete-today-