Army, NGO, gov’t bring services to Albarka to curb terrorism in Basilan

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 1): Army, NGO, gov’t bring services to Albarka to curb terrorism in Basilan

ISABELA CITY, Basilan -- Terrorism and its ideology remain a threat and a concern in Basilan, especially in conflict-torn town of Al-barka in the eastern part of Basilan, south of the Philippines.

It is for this reason that the Philippine Army in Basilan brought some volunteers and organizations and conducted civic and medical services, in the hope that people could appreciate government efforts to curb terrorism in the area the soonest possible time.

In partnership with stakeholders, including Save the Children of War Foundation, the Department of Health and local health unit of Albarka, the Upsilon Sigma Phi Fraternity of the University of the Philippines in Diliman, and the Kayang-Kayang Ilo-ilo Mission International, the Philippine Army led the civic and medical mission on January 27, 2018.

LTC Achilles Dela Cruz said that part of the team were military units of the 4th Special Forces Battalion, 18th Infantry Battalion, and the AFP Reserve Unit composed mostly of professionals like nurses and doctors.

“This is part of our campaign to be closer to the people and let them feel the services of government and the army. We are not only for combat operations but we could also facilitate the delivery of services, both from government and non-government organizations to hard-to-reach areas in Basilan, especially when the issue of peace is concerned,” he said.

He said that one could notice that more and more people and groups outside Basilan are coming to give services and help to project a more positive and safe image for Basilan.

Mayor Darus S. Lajid was grateful for the services brought to Al-barka. He said that his none-IRA municipality is one of those with no doctors and nurses in the area, depriving people of much-needed medical care. He could only do as much with the subsidy provided by the regional government of ARMM and the support of the provincial government.

“Lumuluwang na ang Al-Barka ngayon sa mga civilians at sumisikip na sa mga masamang elemento dito…Pwede ko sabihin na from March 2017, pwede na namin i-declare ang Al-Barka na zero-ASG,” he quoted adding that the same effort is being done on the issue of illegal drugs.

Meanwhile, as part of the celebration of their centennial year, the Upsilon Sigma Phi fraternity, especially Batch’83 brought playground facilities for Barangay Cambug, such as seesaw, swing, monkey bar, and slide.

“The project was intended for children to give them the opportunity to grow normally as they should,” Romeo Liamzon of Upsilon said.

The Save the Children of War Foundation with founding director Dr. Arlyn Jawad brought toys and books for the children. Her team also conducted some games and storytelling activities.

Over 386 patients were given services by the medical team from the military and the Kayang-Kayang volunteers. Some 49 benefited from haircut, 51 for dental, and 1 for circumcision. About 50 young people were also gathered where Anthony Pangilinan gave an inspirational talk, hoping to encourage the youth to stay away from the lure of ASGs.

Historically, Magcawa barangay was previously controlled by the Abu Sayyafs where bloody encounters between the military and ASGs ensued. According to 4SFBn Philippine Army CMO 1Lt Ron JR T. Villarosa, the area has been the gateway in 2016 towards Tipo-Tipo town to capture the stronghold of ASG leader Isnilon Hapilon.

http://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1004590