MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL (PIA) -- The provincial government emphasized robust partnership and cooperation with the Philippine Army after Gov. Henry S. Oaminal's succession as the new battalion commander of the 903rd (MOC) RRIBn, Philippine Army, recently.

With this new rank and responsibility, LtCol. Henry S. Oaminal underscored this collaboration, highlighting its pivotal role in the dismantlement of the Guerrilla Front (GF)-Sendong of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC) of the New People’s Army (NPA).

MGen Gabriel C. Viray, Commander of the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division of the PA, echoed this sentiment by praising Misamis Occidental's leadership, saying, "The leadership of Misamis Occidental was instrumental."

He also said that it is a rare and good opportunity for a sitting governor to be the commander of the ready reserve battalion in his province.

“I want you to know the significant effort made under Gov.Oaminal's leadership in dismantling Guerilla Front Sendong. Thanks to his guidance and support for our units, especially the 10th Infantry Battalion, the 102nd Brigade, and the 1st Infantry TABAK Division, the province allocated funds as a reward for those who facilitated the surrender or neutralization of these rebels,’’ he said.

“This allocation expedited our operations, fostered greater cooperation among the populace, and bolstered the efforts of our units on the ground to dismantle the last remaining guerrilla front in the Zambo Peninsula and Misamis Occidental,’’ he added.

"The last remaining guerrilla front here in Misamis Occidental and the rest of the Zamboanga Peninsula was dismantled last December, and the declaration was signed and approved by the leadership of the AFP and PNP on March 3," Viray said. 

As a result, Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Misamis Occidental declared the province insurgency-free on March 11, 2024. (PGMO)