HONORING PARTNERS IN PEACEBUILDING: 53IB Recognizes Local Chief Executives, Stakeholders For Support, Invaluable Contributions

The Philippine Army’s 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion (53IB) honors its partners in peacebuilding as they continue to render their unceasing support and invaluable contributions to the battalion which effectively resulted to an insurgency-free and development-ready area of operations.

In a statement, 53IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera expressed his gratitude to the battalion’s stakeholders for their invaluable support rendered to the 53IB which greatly contributed to the accomplishment of the unit’s mission.

“Our stakeholders’ commitment portrays strong collaboration and partnership that strengthens the government’s peacebuilding efforts,” said Lt. Col. Herrera.

“The close partnership and convergence between the 53IB and its stakeholders played a vital role in our success and victory: in keeping the province and its municipalities safe and in delivering government services to hinterland communities,” Lt. Col. Herrera added.

In 2021, the Province of Zamboanga del Sur was declared as an “Insurgency-free and development-ready Province” by virtue of Sangguniang Panlalawigan Resolution No. 1357-2021. In the months that followed, the municipalities of the province followed with the same declaration through corresponding municipal resolutions.