THE 10TH Infantry Division (ID) is bolstering its territorial defense system to prevent the resurgence of the New People’s Army (NPA) in its area of responsibility.
Major Ruben Gadut, the 10th ID’s Public Affairs Office chief, outlined a three-pronged strategy:
- Addressing Remnants: Targeting the remaining armed groups of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC).
- Inter-Regional Coordination: Partnering with the 4th Infantry Division to counter potential threats from the North Central Mindanao and North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committees (NCMRC & NEMRC).
- Sustained Presence in Cleared Areas: Maintaining a strong presence in areas formerly influenced by the NPA.
Gadut detailed the tactics employed, including encouraging surrenders through programs like “Balik Pamayanan,” which engages with the families of NPA remnants.
Balik Pamayanan Program is a concept and approach of 10ID about the Localized Peace Engagement (LPE) effort of the local government engaging the families and friends of active and low members of the CTGs to help negotiate their sure. er.
The division also closely monitors former rebels to ensure the effective delivery of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
The 10th ID has strengthened its integrated territorial defense system to prevent incursions from neighboring regions.
It is the operationalization and interoperability of its five components (1. Brgy-based Institutions like BPOC, BADAC, etc., 2. Left Behind Forces like BPATS, CAFGUs, Tribal Warriors, etc., 3. Brgy Information Networks, 4. People’s Organizations, and 5. Quick Impact Projects implementation and monitoring).
Gadut said its objectives are to have a timely reporting system for any possible CTG resurgence, collaborative efforts in addressing local issues primary and secondary, participation in peace-building activities, and deployment of direct action units from the army and PNP, among others.
The division also maintains mobile community support teams to deter threats and ensure peace and order.
“Our focus has shifted from purely military operations to development support,” Gadut explained.
“We haven’t abandoned armed engagement, but our primary task now is to support development in former conflict areas to prevent the NPA from regaining influence,” he further said.
This comprehensive approach aims to maintain the region’s insurgency-free status by addressing both security and development needs.
