Pinoy, American soldiers in ‘Balikatan’ build multi-purpose hall in Antique

From the Manila Bulletin (Apr 30, 2023): Pinoy, American soldiers in ‘Balikatan’ build multi-purpose hall in Antique (By TARA YAP)

ILOILO CITY – Filipino and American soldiers built a multi-purpose hall at the Inabasan Elementary School in Sibalom town, Antique province as part of the “Balikatan” military exercises that ended last Friday.



FILIPINO and American soldiers grace the blessing of the multi-purpose hall at Inabasan Elementary School in Sibalom town, Antique province. The project was part of this year’s Balikatan. Also in photo is Gov. Rhodora Cadiao. (Antique PIO)

Present during the April 27 turnover ceremony were Philippine Army 301st Infantry Brigade (IB) deputy commander Col. Leroy Daanton, US Marine Corps 3rd Civil Affairs Group detachment commander Lt. Col. James Colvin, Antique Gov. Rhodora “Dodod” Cadiao, Sibalom Mayor Gian Carlo Occeña, and Sibalom Schools District Supervisor Dr. Demar Cahilig.

The P1.69-million project was part of Balikatan’s Engineering Civic Action Program (ENCAP).

“Balikatan ENCAP aims to contribute to the welfare and social development of the communities through infrastructure development, building schools, and other community-focused structures,” Daanton said.

Colvin said that constructing the multi-purpose hall not only strengthened the bond between Filipino and American forces but also the community in Sibalom.

https://mb.com.ph/2023/4/30/pinoy-american-soldiers-in-balikatan-build-multi-purpose-hall-in-antique