MALAYBALAY CITY (PIA) — The 48th Infantry “Guardians” Battalion commended the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Bukidnon for its commitment to peace and development during its 44th Founding Anniversary in Maramag, Bukidnon.
The recognition was given in acknowledgment of DILG Bukidnon’s active role in implementing community-based peacebuilding programs, facilitating former rebel reintegration, and supporting the government’s counter-insurgency strategies.
Represented by Provincial Director Rhona Pedraza-Abadilla, DILG Bukidnon received a Plaque of Recognition for its crucial role in supporting the battalion’s mission of sustaining an insurgency-free community.
DILG played a key role in coordinating local government efforts, mobilizing barangay development councils, and ensuring the implementation of localized peace and order initiatives supporting the battalion’s mission.
A key initiative in this effort is the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), a collaboration between DILG Bukidnon and the 48th IB that provides former rebels (FRs) livelihood assistance, skills training, and reintegration support.
As a core member of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), DILG Bukidnon oversees the implementation of E-CLIP, ensures funding and logistical support for FR assistance, and coordinates inter-agency efforts to institutionalize peacebuilding at the grassroots level.
The initiative helps former rebels rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society.
DILG Bukidnon and the 48th IB also collaborate to declare insurgency-free municipalities across the province.
They have strengthened local peace and security initiatives through coordinated efforts and ensured communities remain resilient against insurgency threats.
The event was attended by Major General Joseph Norwin D. Pasamonte, Commander of the 7th Infantry Division, along with local chief executives (LCEs), representatives from non-government organizations, and other key stakeholders.
The award underscores the agency’s continued partnership with the military, LGUs, and other stakeholders to sustain peace and security in Bukidnon. (DILG-Bukidnon/PIA 10-Bukidnon)
