Kalinaw News: Arakan launches POs Hub; vows to support ELCAC amidst Pandemic

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 4, 2021): Arakan launches POs Hub; vows to support ELCAC amidst Pandemic



ARAKAN, COTABATO – The Joint Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC), Provincial Reduction and Livelihood Employment Cluster (PRLEC) headed by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Local Government Unit (LGU) of Arakan, and 72nd Infantry “Gabay” Battalion successfully conducted ceremonial Launching of People’s Organization Hub and signing Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) earlier today, December 03, 2021, at Arakan Public Magpet.

The convergence of the various Government Agencies to end local communist armed conflict led to the realization of the newly turned-over People’s Organization Hub to be utilized by the 14 POs of Arakan. The 14 POs were former sympathizers/supporters of the Communist Terrorist Groups which were later cleared after the immersion of the Community Support Programs Teams (CSPTs) and are now being assisted and supported by the Local Government of Arakan and Community Development Teams (CDTs) of 72IB.

The said hub which is located at the Arakan Public Market is one of the unit’s sustainment efforts in collaboration with PRLEC’s project as Agripreneur that aims to provide sustainable livelihood and assistance to POs in achieving our ultimate objective — that is to have a just and lasting peace. The spare or unsold products will be sold to the Local Government Unit and other stakeholders. Thru this kind of support, the POs hub will gradually grow until it is recognized throughout the province of North Cotabato as the primary producer of local products in the Philippines.

Since the country experienced the Pandemic, the living system and economic growth have collapsed especially to the businessmen whose only livelihood is selling local products. Hence, this Hub will give the POs an opportunity to bring their local products for direct marketing, therefore cutting off middlemen in the business process and consequently securing better prices for their commodities.

The activity began with the cutting of ribbon symbolizing the formal launching of the POs hub. Afterward, it was steered thru a series of inspirational messages coming from the Provincial Directors, different heads, and representatives of the various Government Agencies and subsequently signing of Memorandum Of Agreement (MOA). One of the highlights of the said activity is the Signing of Pledge of Commitment to all the representatives from the different agencies involved in PRLEC and other concerned units. Everyone vowed to give their full support and commitment in the implementation of programs and projects intended for the enhancement of the living condition and economic growth of the POs.

Present during the activity were Hon Rene V Rubino, Municipal Mayor of Arakan; Sir Jun Obello, Rep of Governor Catamco; LTC Jose C Regonay Jr, Commanding Officer 72IB; PCpt Allan Edgar Espadera, COP; Hon Jeam Villasor, ABC President; Dir Norayah A Acas JD, TESDA-Provincial Director; Ms. Nerissa G Figura, DepEd Representative; Engr Amado Aparice – DPWH; Barangay Captains; Staff from the Local Government of Arakan; YFPM Arakan Chapter; and officers and troops of 72IB.

During his opening remarks, Hon Rubino commended everyone who made the activity possible and successful. He expressed his gratitude to all Government agencies for extending their services and reaching out to the populace of Arakan.

“This is the start of our lasting peace. The peace that we all long for so long. This hub symbolizes our strong partnership with the various government agencies, PNP, AFP and your LGU. Rest assured that we will give our support to whatever your needs in order to attain and maintain this Hub.” Hon. Rubino said in his message.

In behalf of the chairman of PRLEC Dir Rafael Abrogar II, Dir Norayah Acas said, “This is our 2nd launching of POs hub in partnership with 72IB. This shows that our Government is sincere in its mandate to bring the services closer to the people thur the interventions of all concerned agencies. Your TESDA will continue its convergence with 72IB to continuously provide you all with the training necessary for the enhancement of your economic growth especially with the utilization of this POs hub.” she ended.

In response, LTC Jose C Regonay Jr, Commanding Officer 72IB assured that the Army will continue to protect the peace and order in Arakan.

“We are very fortunate because our Leaders are very committed to ending our 52-year struggle against insurgency. This is what we call “The whole of nation approach” We want nothing but your cooperation, trust, and support as we achieve our goal towards peace and development. Mabuhay tayong lahat and To God Be The Glory!” He ended.

72IB in partnership with PRLEC is expecting for the Launching of POs Hub in other municipalities within the unit’s Area of Operations in North Cotabato.

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https://www.kalinawnews.com/arakan-launches-pos-hub-vows-to-support-elcac-amidst-pandemic/