53IB Conducts Local Peace Forum on National and Local Elections in Bayog

The Philippien Army’s 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion (53IB) conducted a Local Peace Forum in connection with the 2022 National and Local Elections which was participated by the candidates for mayoral, vice-mayoral, barangay official posts in Bayog on March 26, 2022.

The peace forum highlighted the lecture on gun ban and illegal firearms which was delivered by Atty. Gretchen Mae Ortega, the convergence and collaboration between the 53IB and the PNP and the cooperation of the candidates toward a peaceful and secured elections.

In a statement, 53IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera said that a collaborative effort is necessary to achieve a peaceful elections and assured that the Army will do its mandate of protecting the people to make sure they will be able to practice their right to suffrage without fear.

“Peace is a shared responsibility. We will not tolerate the existence of armed individuals as we were tasked to destroy them to keep the people safe and ensure a peaceful elections,” said Lt. Col. Herrera.

Zamboanga del Sur Police Provincial Office Director PCol. Diomarie Albarico also asked for the candidates’ cooperation in keeping and maintaining the peace in conducting their political activities.

“We encourage all candidates to refrain from utilizing violence as a means to advance their political agenda,” said PCol. Albarico.

Meanwhile, 102nd Infantry “Igsoon” Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas assured that the Army will remain apolitical in carrying out its mandate this coming elections.

“Your Army will remain professional in carrying out its duty to the people. We will ensure their safety this coming elections,” said Brig. Gen. Nicolas.