The forum, facilitated by the 27th Infantry (ACTION) Battalion, with the support of the Davao City Local Government Unit, was held at Marilog Central Elementary School from November 15-17, 2024.
The PSF, themed "Kaalam Alang sa Pagpadayon sa Kalinaw ug Kalambuan Dalan sa Hapsay na Syudad ug Malipayong Katawhan" (Knowledge for the Continuation of Peace and Development - The Path to a Peaceful City and Happy People), brought together 35 former rebels (FR), 67 Militiang Bayan (MB), and 343 members of underground mass organizations (UGMO) from twelve barangays in Marilog District. This event marks a significant turning point, as these individuals have severed ties with the CPP/NPA/NDF and denounced their ideology.
The three-day program aimed to counter CTG indoctrination and shed light on the exploitation tactics used by the NPA. Participants received crucial information about the programs and services offered by the LGU, LGAs, and partner stakeholders, effectively refuting the false promises and narratives used by the NPA to manipulate communities.
The PSF culminated in a powerful Peace Rally and the symbolic burning of the NPA flag, signifying the participants' realization of the NPA's deception. One participant, a former full-time member of GF53 who had been exploited by the NPA in Arakan, North Cotabato, and Kibawe, Bukidnon, shared her harrowing experiences, highlighting the decades of manipulation she endured. She implored all participants to support the military and government, working together to transform their barangays from NPA safe havens into peaceful communities.
1003rd Deputy Brigade Commander, COLONEL MICHAEL B BANUA MNSA PA, emphasized the PSF's significance as a crucial step towards community peace and development. He highlighted the activity's success as a psychological barrier to potential terrorist recruitment. He challenged the attendees to protect and support the government in their pursuit of peace.
The PSF was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the City Government of Davao City and various government agencies including:
* National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIPXI)
* Department of Agrarian Reform (DARXI)
* Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENRXI)
* Police Station 12, Marilog, DCPO, PNP
* City Social Welfare Development Office (CSWDO)
* Davao City Health Office
* Department of Education (DepEd), Davao City Division
* DXFE 1197 AM Radio Station
* Laquihon Agro-Environmental Consultancy Services
These agencies provided lectures on their mandates and programs, made commitments to support the community, and offered solutions to improve the attendees' living conditions. This collective effort exemplifies the "whole-of-nation approach" (WNA) to ending local communist armed conflict (ELCAC).
The closing ceremony was graced by PCOL ANGEL SUMAGAYSAY Ret, Head of Public Safety and Security Office, and other dignitaries. They expressed their appreciation to the participants for their courageous decision to denounce the NPA and embrace the government's support. The ceremony concluded with the distribution of food packs, seeds and seedlings, and hot meals for the participants.
This event stands as a testament to the power of collaborative efforts in achieving peace and development. The 27th Infantry (ACTION) Battalion, the Davao City Local Government Unit, and partner agencies have demonstrated a strong commitment to empowering communities and dismantling the influence of the NPA. The successful completion of the PSF marks a significant step towards a brighter future for Marilog District and the entire Davao City.
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