• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Philippine Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion (IB) is establishing an integrated territorial defense system (ITDS) in Barangay Cruz, Calatrava, Negros Occidental aimed at sustaining peace in the remote community.
Lt. Col. Eric Alfonso, 79IB commander, said the ITDS is a localized security framework that empowers barangay leaders and residents to actively participate in peacekeeping and early threat detection.
This comes after remnants of the New People’s Army in northern Negros went on a killing spree, especially in the Calatrava hinterlands and neighboring Toboso town, victimizing civilians they accused as military informants.
“Through the ITDS, we are helping communities become peacebuilders and partners in security. Together, we can make Calatrava safer and stronger,” Alfonso said in a statement.
On July 27, the 79IB held a dialogue with Barangay Cruz officials and residents to secure their support in promoting peace in their community
Village chief Crisantac Agravante expressed her support and appreciation for the Army’s peace building efforts.
Maj. Jestoni Labarosa, 79IB executive officer, and 1st Lt. Ariel De Guzman, 79IB Bravo Company commander, emphasized the importance of community collaboration in sustaining peace, especially in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.
Meanwhile, 562 residents of Barangay Budlasan in Canlaon City, Negros Oriental availed of various services during the Retooled Community Support Program Serbisyo Caravan on Aug. 4.
Jointly initiated by the 62nd Infantry Battalion Charlie Company and partner- agencies, the caravan offered medical consultations, legal assistance, counseling, agricultural support, enlistment for proposed farm-to-market road projects, distribution of e-titles, and issuance of certificates of condonation and release of mortgage. | GB
