More troops arrive in fight versus NPA
WITH the government’s serious drive to flush out elements of the terrorist groups, a repositioning of military units transpired as additional troops arrived here to augment the existing security forces and help in the intensified operations against members of the New People’s Army (NPA).
Captain Jerry Lamosa, 10th Infantry Division (ID) Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO), said on December 8, the 15th Infantry “Molave Warrior” Battalion (IB) who came from Lanao del Norte arrived.
“After the declaration of the President that CPPNPA is a terrorist group, units under 10ID have intensified its focused military operations geared towards the neutralization of communist terrorists in their area of responsibility (AOR),” Lamosao said.
They arrived in the city at around 6 p.m. and were welcomed by the military officials led by 10th ID Assistant Division Commander Brigadier General Bienvenido R. Datuin Jr. on behalf of commander Major General Noel S. Clement together with 1002nd Brigade Commander Colonel Roberto Ancan in a ceremony held at Tactical Air Group (TOG) 11, Old Airport, Sasa, Davao City.
Clement, in his message delivered by Datuin, said the competence of the additional troops will help in bolstering the government’s strength in its battle against the NPA in the troubled region.
“15th IB will be an additional force for 10ID in conducting focused military operation. Your fighting skills and being steadfast will contribute to achieving peace in our area of responsibility,” he said.
He also urged the troops to help in the attainment of peace and development in the area through addressing the emerging threats.
“Let us help the people and secure their communities from the influence of communist terrorists,” Datuin said.
Lamosao, meanwhile, said the 15th IB will be assigned in Arakan, North Cotabato along with additional troops in 10ID area to intensify military operations as well as their community support program.
“It is also expected that our Community Support Program and information gathering will be more responsive in helping our concerned government agencies and LGUs to deliver the basic services and provide livelihood opportunities to the people,” Lamosao said.