BALER, Aurora (PIA) — The Philippine Army’s 91st Infantry Battalion (91st IB) and partners conducted Barangay Peace Forums (BPFs) in six villages in Maria Aurora, Aurora.
These were attended by about 2,683 residents of Barangays San Joaquin, Diaat, Kadayakan, Bayanihan, Bazal, and Bannawag.
91st IB Acting Commander Lt. Col. Aries Quinto said the BPFs aim to disseminate the various programs of the government that residents can avail of.
“More importantly, the BPFs were meant to expose the atrocities and debunk the lies made by communist terrorist groups (CTGs). Through these, we hope residents will no longer welcome them back to their villages and report any sighting to security forces through their Barangay Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict,” he pressed.
Forum attendees received relief items from the Department of Social Welfare and Development and the municipal government.
“Residents also got leaflets which contain details on the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP). It includes information on the government’s constructive policy for nonviolent reconciliation, which caters to individuals who have surrendered and wish to return as members of mainstream society,” Quinto disclosed.
Relative to this, he encouraged CTG members to surrender their firearms and avail the various programs of the government.
“We will sustain our invitation for the CTG members to surrender. Those willing to leave the group will have the opportunity to rebuild their lives together with their family and friends,” he said.
The government provides a whole-of-nation approach to attain sustainable and inclusive peace throughout the country.
This includes provision of financial, educational, livelihood, and other development assistance for residents of conflict-prone and conflict-affected barangays. (CLJD/MAT, PIA Region 3-Aurora)
