MTF-ELCAC, Army Start Road Projects in Zambo Sur
A ceremonial groundbreaking of three proposed road projects, spearheaded by the Kumalarang Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) of Zamboanga del Sur, was conducted Thursday, June 4, 2020.
The joint projects are the road rehabilitation and opening of National Road Junction (NRJ) Levi-Pandasan-Diplo to Matutinao-Dacon, Picanan Road; the NRJ Boyugan West-Picanan-Gusom Road; and the NRJ Suminalum-Kitaang Dagat-Limamawan-Bogayo Road where mostly are isolated barangays in town of Kumalarang.
The implementation of these projects will be in partnership with 53rd Infantry Battalion, which is led by Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera and 547th Engineer Battalion, led by Col. Emerito Pineda.
The municipal mayor and MTF-ELCAC Chairperson Hon. Ruel Molina during his speech mentioned that the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Kumalarang allotted 4-Million pesos for the said road projects stretching at a total of 24 kilometers.
“In behalf of the people of Kumalarang, I express my utmost gratitude to the Army for the unwavering support and in giving us a chance to realize these (road) projects that will greatly benefit our constituents,” said Hon Molina.
“The construction of these roads will provide an opportunity for our farmers to better market their products,” Mayor Molina added.
As one of the guests, Hon Leonardo “Jun” Babasa, Representative, 2nd Congressional District, ZDS emphasized the importance of roads to its constituents in the farflung communities.
“The roads, when realized, will facilitate and improve the delivery of basic and government services to the people,” said Hon Babasa.
In addition, Brig. Gen. Anthony Cacayuran, the 54th Engineer Brigade Commander, reiterated the support that the Army Engineers offer in implementing these (ELCAC) road projects.
“Your Army Engineers are here to help, together we will open roads and together we will end this insurgency,” said Brig. Gen. Cacayuran.
Meanwhile, Tabak Division Commander Maj. Gen. Gene Ponio in his remarks lauded the MTF-ELCAC of Kumalarang for their selfless dedication to serve their constituents.
“Your Tabak troopers will always be ready to assist the Local Government in the implementation of these (ELCAC) projects that aims to address the issues and reasons where our people resorted to terrorism and lawlessness,” said Maj. Gen. Ponio.
“With good governance and having the heart and focus to serve our people despite our limited resources, will bring us closer in attaining peace,” Maj. Gen. Ponio added.
Also present during the activity were Col Leonel Nicolas, Commander, 102nd Infantry Brigade; PCpt Dexter Adrias, Chief, Municipal Police Station; and other Municipal and Barangay Officials.