BRIGADIER General Felix Ronnie Babac, commander of the 1001st Infantry Brigade, held a dialogue with the Indigenous People (IP) of Barangay Gupitan, Kapalong, Davao del Norte, advocating for unity and mutual respect as the nation approaches the 2025 midterm elections.
The dialogue took place at the headquarters of the 60th Infantry Battalion, Camp Morgia in Asuncion, Davao del Norte, on April 29, 2025.
Addressing tribal elders and community members, Babac emphasized the importance of protecting long-standing relationships and preserving peace amidst rising political tensions.
“Do not get involved in politicians’ fights,” he urged, reminding the IP community that while elections are significant, they should not fracture family and tribal unity.
He highlighted that the activity, organized by Lieutenant Colonel Jovily Carmen DF Cabading, commanding officer of the 60th Infantry Battalion, is part of the unit’s efforts to promote honest, orderly, and peaceful elections across all sectors of society, including the IP community.
This initiative aims to foster a culture of respect for diverse opinions and beliefs, particularly within vulnerable communities historically susceptible to armed conflict.
Babac also stressed the critical importance of solidarity, warning that internal divisions could be exploited by insurgent groups such as the New People’s Army.
Furthermore, he called on the community to transcend political disputes and collaborate for the progress of their ancestral lands.
“If division persists in your community due to political disputes, the NPA and other malicious groups will take advantage of it. Together, let us protect our insurgency-free area of mutual concern and work hand-in-hand so your ancestral land will continue to thrive,” Babac concluded.
