11 barangays in Lanao del Norte are the latest to be included in the priority list of beneficiary-barangays for the Kalayaan Barangays Program (KBP) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines through the National Development Support Command (NADESCOM).

The KBP is a government program designed to transform conflict-affected communities into peace and development areas through the implementation of accelerated barangay-focused rehabilitation and development projects.

“Through these programs, people will come to see that the AFP is our custodians of peace”, stressed Gov. Khalid Dimaporo.

Among the barangays identified are: Brgy. Matampay of Munai, Brgys. Pantaon and Maliwanag of Poona Piagapo, Brgy. Paiton of Kauswagan, Brgy. Poblacion of Tangkal, Brgy. Lumbac of Magsaysay, Brgys. Mabuhay, Capucao, Maguindanao, Mamagum and Sigayan all of Sultan Naga Dimaporo.

Each of the KBP beneficiary-barangay is allotted 4.5 million for their priority infrastructure projects limited to the following: farm-to-market roads, school buildings, health centers, electrification systems, and water systems.

“Nung 2005 merong 5 beneficiary-barangays ang Lanao del Norte lahat found in Sultan Naga Dimaporo, nung 2008 may additional pa na 5 baranagays still in SND. For 2010, merong na tayong 11 barangays belonging to different municipalities of the province”, said LTC Gerardo Catindoy of the 547th Engineering Construction Battalion.

Last June 22, a Rapid Needs Assessment (RNA) was conducted by 547th Engineering Battalion and the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office at the Farmer’s Training Center, Tubod, this province.

The RNA was held to orient stakeholders of the KBP, identify and prioritize the KBP projects in accordance with the core infrastructure needs of each of the barangay and enhance local participation in the program through direct consultations with local barangay officials.

“I would like to congratulate the Armed Forces of the Philippines, our barangay leaders, and our municipal leaders for a very successful program and projects in 2009, now in 2010 I hope we can continue this very good partnership” concluded Gov. Dimaporo. VNL/PIO-LDN