Zamboanga del Sur Commends 53IB as Active Member of LTF-ELCAC
The Provincial Council of Zamboanga del Sur has approved Resolution No. 1105-2021 dated January 7, 2021, commending the Philippine Army’s 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion (53IB) “for being an active member of the Local Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (LTF-ELCAC) in the provincial and municipal levels in addressing the 52-year long problem in communism and terrorism in its area of operation.”
The resolution cited that “the 53IB had converged, participated, and facilitated in the opening of farm-to-market roads that connected conflict affected areas and geographically-isolated and disadvantaged areas to constrict and disrupt enemy mobility corridors and space.”
“The construction of these farm-to-market roads also helped revitalize economic activities in the area by shortening the time for transporting goods and crops from the mountain to the market, providing access to government services and creating more socio-economic opportunities,” the resolution stated.
“In view of the significant contributions of the 53IB,” the Provincial Council “is deeply overwhelmed by the 53IB in advancing the general welfare of the people of Zamboanga del Sur and thus, finds it fitting to convey its commendation,” the resolution stated.
Lt. Col. Herrera said the construction and rehabilitation of farm-to-market roads in Zamboanga del Sur were conducted with the 547th Engineer “Agila” Battalion (547EB) led by Col. Emerito Pineda, 44th Infantry “Agile N’ Stable” Battalion led by Lt. Col. Don Templonuevo and the supervision of 102nd Infantry “Igsoon” Brigade led by Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas.
“The 547th Engineer “Agila” Battalion is continuously supporting initiatives to achieve peace and progress for the people,” Col. Pineda said.
“Your Matapat Troopers humbly accept this commendation with the assurance that we will continue in our passion the serve the people and secure the Province of Zamboanga del Sur,” 53IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera said.
