EMPOWERING BARANGAY FIRST RESPONDERS: Army, LGU Organize Barangay Defense System vs. CPP-NPA in Dumingag, ZDS

The Philippine Army’s 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion (53IB) and the Local Government Unit of Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur organized the Barangay Defense System (BDS) for each barangay in simple program on April 21-23, 2021 at Dumingag Sports Complex in San Pablo,.

53IB’s Bravo Company Commander 1st Lt. Neil Kim Garcia gathered local residents and organized them into a Barangay Defense System (BDS).

The BDS aims to strengthen the security of each barangay to counter any presence of the New People’s Army (NPA), and also to counter threats of terrorism and insurgency.The formed BDS will function as the first responder at the barangay for peace and security efforts. The barangay personnel underwent training on how to respond to different kinds of threats, and at the same time gather awareness on proper coordination with government security forces.

Each graduate of the BDS training received a certificate of completion as proof of honor and dignity for their power and responsibility as cooperative citizens of their barangays,” Dumingag Mayor Joan Abejuela said.

Present during the closing program were 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division Assistant Division Commander BGen. Bagnus Gaerlan Jr., Vice Mayor Mydell Pacalioga, Oplan Amuma Executive Director Ronel Cabilan, DILG IX Officer Ruel Trobanos, of DILG, Brgy Chairmen of Dumingag, Barangay Officials, and representatives from BFP and PNP.