Military takes on new role in Lanao del Norte
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Tubod, Lanao del Norte – Instead of wielding M16s and other high-powered rifles, soldiers in this province now hold paint brushes, brooms and hammers as they take on their new role as rebuilders of schools and developers of tourist destinations.Dubbed “Operation Bayanihan”, soldiers belonging to the 35th IB (Makamandang Battalion) stationed in Camp Allere, Salvador, Lanao del Norte have been making the rounds of local schools to lend a helping hand in DepED’s Brigada Eskwela. The Battalion has been providing manpower assistance to more than 100 public schools and has been instrumental in improving school facilities, buildings and school grounds.
“The function of today’s soldier is no longer confined to just combat operations, he has evolved to become a catalyst for positive development in his area of responsibility and a pro-active peace builder in his community”, 35th IB Commander Ferdinand Razalan said.
‘Operation Bayanihan’ is one of the activities undertaken by the battalion, as they celebrate their 9th Refilling Anniversary on July 16, 2011.
“We have conducted simultaneous coastal clean-up from the town of Sultan Naga Dimaporo to Kolambugan. We also have a battalion sports fest, a formal program to thank all the stakeholders who have supported us through the years and a fellowship night on the evening of July 16”, Lt. Pelagio Dela Cruz announced.
On June 6, the Makamandag battalion also launched the newest beach attraction in the province, Umbrella Beach Resort in Brgy. Payong, Sultan Naga Dimaporo during the Ms. Lanao del Norte candidates’ site visit.
In the last Provincial Peace and Order Council meeting on June 14, 2011, the provincial government headed by Gov. Khalid Dimaporo together with the provincial PNP and AFP leadership jointly declared Kapatagan Valley as insurgency-free. The announcement came after security forces noted significant improvements in the peace and order situation in the valley, and the absence of activities by the New People’s Army (NPA).
Kapatagan Valley is composed of the municipalities of Kapatagan, Sultan Naga Dimaporo, Sapad, Lala, Baroy and Salvador all of Lanao Del Norte.
The fast-rising province of Lanao del Norte is starting to reap the economic gains of having a stable security condition and a booming sports tourism.
The province has recently been hailed by both motocross enthusiasts and organizers as the ‘Motocross Capital of the Philippines’. VNL/PIO-LDN
