60IB Launches Mediator KALASAG Program to Build Prepared, Resilient, and Secure Communities in Davao de Oro
LAAK, Davao de Oro — The 60th Infantry (Mediator) Battalion, under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Jesus L. Rosete, successfully launched the Mediator KALASAG Program (Kahandaan at Aksyon ng Lokal na Pamayanan at mga Ahensya para sa Seguridad, Agarang Responde, at Gabay) through a three-day capability enhancement training conducted from 03 to 05 July 2026 at the Municipal Gymnasium, Brgy. Poblacion, Laak, Davao de Oro.
Anchored on the theme, “Nagkahiusang mga Komunidad ug mga Ahensya sa Pagpalig-on sa Kahandaan, Kalig-on ug Responsableng Panubag Aron Matukod ang Luwas, Andam, ug Malungtarung Kaugmaon Alang sa Katawhan,” the program was designed to strengthen community preparedness, enhance Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) capabilities, and operationalize the Integrated Territorial Defense System (ITDS) through a robust Whole-of-Nation Approach. It also reinforces the vital principles of collaboration, coordination, and communication among government agencies, security forces, and local communities in addressing disasters and emerging security challenges.
The initiative brought together critical frontline components of the ITDS, including the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit Active Auxiliaries (CAFGU/CAA), Reservists, People’s Organizations, Bagani Forces, Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams (BPATs), and Barangay-Based Institutions (BBIs) equipping them with practical knowledge and essential skills to enhance local resilience and community security.
Throughout the three-day activity, participants underwent comprehensive lectures, practical exercises, workshops, and simulation activities facilitated by subject matter experts from the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), the Philippine National Police (PNP), the 60th Infantry Battalion, and the 1103rd Community Defense Center (CDC).
The training focused on three major capability enhancement modules:
• Module 1: Strengthening Disaster Preparedness through Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR)
• Module 2: Building Community Resilience through the Operationalization of the Integrated Territorial Defense System (ITDS)
• Module 3: Advancing Community Recovery, Security, and Sustainable Resilience
The opening ceremony on 03 July 2026 was graced by Ms. Mary Ann Gatpatan, representing Hon. Benelabre M. Gutual, President of the Association of Barangay Captains (ABC) of Laak. Also present were Major Roberto A. Escalona, Executive Officer of the 60th Infantry Battalion; Captain Joven D. Vasquez, Battalion Operations and Training Officer; and First Lieutenant James M. Reduban, Commanding Officer of Charlie Company.
The program concluded on 05 July 2026 with a closing ceremony attended by Mr. Samuel Lacierda III, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer, representing Hon. Mark Anthony S. Libuangan, Municipal Mayor of Laak, together with Lieutenant Colonel Rosete and his staff.
In his keynote message, Lieutenant Colonel Rosete underscored the significance of preparedness as a shared responsibility.
“As we commence this program, I encourage every participant to embrace this opportunity with commitment and a genuine desire to serve. The knowledge and competencies you gain here should not end within these four walls but must be shared, practiced, and multiplied in your respective communities. Your preparedness today may one day save lives, protect families, preserve livelihoods, and strengthen the security of our nation.”
The Mediator KALASAG Program serves as a strategic platform that integrates security forces, local government units, disaster response agencies, civil society organizations, and community stakeholders into a unified framework for preparedness, prevention, response, and recovery. More importantly, it cultivates a culture of resilience by empowering communities to become active partners in safeguarding lives, protecting livelihoods, and strengthening local security.
Through sustained collaboration, effective coordination, and open communication among stakeholders, the 60th Infantry (Mediator) Battalion remains steadfast in advancing territorial defense, disaster resilience, and sustainable peace, ensuring safer, stronger, and more secure communities throughout its area of responsibility.
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