Soldiers conduct info drive on gov't programs in Puerto Princesa

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 25): Soldiers conduct info drive on gov't programs in Puerto Princesa

The Fleet Marine Team in Palawan will be conducting an information and education campaign (IEC) on the government’s development programs to curb the influence of communist rebels in Barangay Maruyogon on January 30.

Navy Lt. Junior Grade Eduard J. Pablico, commanding officer of the Civil Military Operations Unit West (CMOU-West) of the Philippine Navy, said the information drive on peace and development is also intended to inform the youth on the programs of the navy and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), including IEC on Children in Armed Conflict (CIAC).

“This information drive will also ensure that issues will reach the grassroots and is a year-long drive not only in Puerto Princesa but also the whole province of Palawan as well. Thanks to Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan, the nation is now closer to winning the peace,” Pablico said.

"Bayanihan" is the community development strategy adopted by the military in combating insurgency in rural and far flung areas.

"Our IPSP is working because of the 'Bayanihan' spirit that has been rekindled in all stakeholders. Together as a people, we are closer now in winning the peace. As the AFP takes on a support role in achieving and maintaining peace and security, we see more empowered communities and deepening of democratic institutions -- the foundations of a peaceful society," he added.

The CMOU-West Team will conduct the IEC on high schools and elementary schools in Barangay Maruyogon and will discuss maritime domain awareness, CIAC, IPSP Bayanihan, and will encourage the youth in the recruitment program. They will also hand out leaflets and other information materials for the event, he said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=609288