LOUDSPEAKER OPERATIONS IN REMOTE AREAS: Disseminating Information for Peace, Security in Barangay Sunop, ZDS
To massively disseminate information for peace and security in the area, the Philippine Army’s 53rd Infantry “MATAPAT” Battalion (53IB) conducted loudspeaker operations in the remote Barangay Sunop, Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur on April 12, 2021.
53IB Charlie Company Commander 2Lt. Magno Relado Jr. led the Matapat Troopers in gently knocking on the hearts and minds of residents in the community. The loudspeaker operations also intend to convince the remnants of CPP-NPA rebels to surrender and avail government benefits.
The Matapat Troopers also conducted community engagement activities to encourage the residents to support the government’s peace and security efforts in ending the local communist armed conflict to create a peaceful community.Former NPA rebels (FRs) who surrendered to 53IB were also part of the programs where they shared their experiences in distressing lives in the mountains to encourage the residents from joining or supporting the communist terrorist group.
The FRs said they were only deceived by NPA leaders and they are now happy and thankful to the government for helping them in starting new lives. The FRs were provided with various assistance including financial and livelihood assistance, TESDA training, and some became CAFGU perosnnels.The Matatpat Troopers also facilitated other activities including cleaning drive, proper waste management, and environmental protection in the area.
