A HISTORIC step toward peace and development was taken in Marilog District as 445 former members of the communist terrorist group (CTG) and their supporters graduated from the three-day peace sustainment forum (PSF).
Facilitated by the 27th Infantry Battalion, with support from the city government, the forum was held at Marilog Central Elementary School from Nov. 15-17, 2024. The PSF brought together 35 former rebels (FR), 67 Militiang Bayan (MB), and 343 members of underground mass organizations (UGMO) from 12 Marilog barangays.
Capt. Eddie Rey Navales, the civil-military operation officer of 27th IB, said the event marked a significant turning point as these individuals have severed ties with the CPP/NPA/NDF and denounced their ideology.
Navales said the program countered CTG indoctrination and exposed the NPA’s exploitation tactics. For instance, participants learned about government programs and services, effectively refuting the NPA’s false promises.
The PSF culminated in a peace rally and the symbolic burning of the NPA flag, signifying the participants’ rejection of the NPA’s deception. One former NPA member shared her harrowing experiences, highlighting decades of manipulation.
Col. Michael Banua, 1003rd Deputy Brigade commander, emphasized the PSF’s significance as a crucial step towards community peace and development, highlighting its success as a psychological barrier to terrorist recruitment. He then challenged attendees to protect and support the government’s pursuit of peace.
The PSF was a joint effort of the city government, National Commission on Indigenous People XI, Department of Agrarian Reform XI, Department of Environment and Natural Resources XI, Police Station 12, Davao City Police Office, PNP, City Social Welfare Development Office, City Health Office, Department of Education-Davao City Division, and Laquihon Agro-Environmental Consultancy Services.
The agencies gave lectures, committed support, and offered solutions to improve living conditions, exemplifying the “whole-of-nation approach” to ending local communist armed conflict.
The closing ceremony, graced by Angel Sumagaysay, head of Public Safety and Security Office, concluded with the distribution of food packs, seeds and seedlings, and hot meals.
Photos courtesy of 27IB
