“No matter how far we have to go towards peace, we will get there if everyone continues to show kindness and sincerity.”
This statement of our beloved President Bong Bong Marcos Jr. was proven true by the people in the district of Upper Pulangi, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.
In line with the celebration of the 125th Philippine Independence Day, residents from the different Barangays of the said district held a Peace Rally initiated by the 43rd CMO Company under the 4th CMO Bn to show their desire to attain peace in their area.
Some barangays of Upper Pulangi which are known as the “haven” of the New People’s Army terrorists influenced people to get radical especially the youth who are victims of its fraudulent promises. They eventually realized that supporting the CPP-NPA-NDF will go nowhere and even jeopardize the bright future of their children. They already know the deceptive tactics of the NPA terrorists and are now supporting the government’s peace initiative for peace and development.
Through the said Peace Rally led by 2Lt Drucille Ena M Sugon of the 43rd (Dangpanan) Company, 4th Civil Military Operations (Kasaligan) Battalion with the 403rd (Peacemaker) Brigade and 8IB, the residents were able to shout and declare non-support to the CPP-NPA-NDF. They declared an oath of allegiance and withdrawal of support to the terrorist groups.
Hundreds of residents from eight barangays of Upper Pulangi participated and committed to supporting the government’s initiatives towards peace and development in Upper Pulangi. Among those who are in solidarity are the People’s Organization, Tribal Leaders, Sangguniang Kabataan, LGUs, and NGAs in Malaybalay City.
“Support EO70”, “Kalinaw among gusto dili kagubot,” and “Suportahan ang programa sa E-CLIP,” are some of the messages written on the placards carried by the people as they walked along the bridge of Barangay Busdi to Busdi Integrated School not minding the scorching heat of the sun and endured the thirst, just to show how sincere they are in supporting the government’s initiative to have lasting peace in the country. “This is the first time that the people of Upper Pulangi are united and participated in a Peace Rally with the uniformed personnel, government agencies, and the LGU I am sure that after this activity, the people here will support the government’s initiatives to maintain security in our area and to solve the problems in our community”, the lively statement of Hon. Joven Salonga, the President of the district.
The activity was concluded with a ceremonial signing of the “Oath for Peace and Prosperity” written on a tarpaulin.
“If there is peace there is prosperity.”
Thus, no matter how long would it takes to get there, the important thing is that we work hand-in-hand.
