OZAMIZ CITY — To symbolise real friendship among former enemies in arms, members of the military’s 102nd Brigade of the Philippines Army offered gifts to some 128 former rebels during its 47th founding anniversary on Saturday, November 7 inside the camp in Oroquieta City, Misamis Occidental.
The gift-giving was the highlight of the three-day activity which started with the unit visitation.
Rey, one of the recipients said he felt he is part of the society, in vernacular he said “Before we used to hide and as soon as we see soldiers coming we run for our safety because there is guilt iside our hearts.”
“Before we stay in the hinterlands, sacrificed our families but now, we move and enjoy a normal life, we felt the government’s sincerity in serving the people, we see and feel the programs of the government, and we are thankful for that, we are now part of the mainstream societym” he added.
Captain Sotero Abrito III, chief of the Civil Military Operations said sharing against former adversaries was their way of showing the former rebels that the government is sincere in its effort to end the armed conflict based on the vision of the administration’s Executive Order No. 70 or End Local Communist Armed Conflict ( ELCAC ).
The FRs which jurisdiction fall under the control of the 102nd Brigade, received rice, canned goods and other food stuff.
At least 22 personnel of the brigade received military commendation medal, recognising the significant contribution in various endeavours and operations of the command.
Brig Gen, Leonel Nicolas, 102d Brigade Commander said, they visited every unit instead of a unified celebration to ensure that everyone stays in their units and no mass movement due to the threat of the coronavirus pandemic.
“ Our accomplishments would not have been possible without the individual and collective performances of our soldiers on the ground, thus it is just timely and right to give due credit for all the sacrifices and their dedication to duty,” Nicolas added.-Expedita Roxas/Newsline Misamis Occidental
Nasayran,nga ang Brigade Commander uban sa staff sa 102nd Brigade,mibisita sa mga kampo sa 10th, 51st, 97th,53rd, 44th ug 42nd Infantry Battalions isip kabahin sa kasaulogan haom sa tema karong tuiga: “ Kaagapay mo Igsoon ko, Para sa kalamboan karon ug kaniadto.”( EXPEDITA G. ROXAS , Newsline Zamboanga Peninsula)
