CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) -- The Philippine Veterans Investment Development Corporation (Phividec) Industrial Authority and the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division (4ID) signed an agreement tapping retired military servicemen to secure the 3,000-hectare Phividec facility on March 11 in Tagaloan, Misamis Oriental.

According to Joseph Donato Bernedo, administrator and CEO of the Phividec Industrial Authority, the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) outlines the process for qualified retired military personnel to apply and be members of a Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit Auxiliary (CAA), receive training from the 4ID, and join the security force that will be stationed to protect Phividec Industrial Estate.

"Through the CAA, our retired military men will have the opportunity to work and be employed even after their retirement. Our retired military men will have the opportunity to be part of the security force that will safeguard and protect PHIVIDEC Industrial Estate," expressed Bernedo. 

Bernedo also underlined the essence of Phividec IA's creation, which is to ensure the welfare and well-being of veterans and retirees of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). He said it is the responsibility of Phividec-IA to seamlessly integrate veterans into civilian life and offer them a chance to be employed and thrive once again.

"The institution of the CAA is the embodiment of taking care of our retirees from the Armed Forces of the Philippines," Bernedo said.

"These individuals have dedicated their lives to serving our nation, demonstrating unparalleled commitment, discipline, and a strong work ethic. As they transition to civilian life, it is our responsibility to ensure that they find meaningful roles that not only utilize their skills but also contribute to their successful integration into the broader workforce," he added.

Maj. Gen. Jose Maria Cuerpo II described the MOA as the heralding of a new chapter of unity and protection for Phividec, positioning it as the beacon of industry in Misamis Oriental. 

He emphasized that the CAA is poised to provide robust protection against potential threats, ensuring the unimpeded growth and services of Phividec in line with its mandate.

Although the initial CAA workforce will comprise 120 individuals, Bernedo is confident in the unit's capability. He highlighted that they also have collaborative efforts with the Philippine National Police, the Philippine Coast Guard, and the security agencies of the estate locators to secure the entire facility.

"In sharing resources, intelligence, and expertise, we strengthen our ability to face multifaceted challenges," Bernedo remarked. 

He also assured that if the need for additional deployment arises, the MOA will provide the flexibility to meet the evolving security requirements.

In addition to activating the CAA, Bernedo disclosed the institution's plans to implement complementary measures, such as the procurement of CCTV cameras and drones, further enhancing the overall security infrastructure of the Phividec estate. (APB/PIA-10)