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‘Sambayanan’ launched in Aurora to support NTF-ELCAC efforts

June 4, 2021 Steve A. Gosuico 604 views

FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija — A new group dubbed “SAMBAYANAN” has emerged in Aurora province to support the programs of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

The Philippine Army based here said several people’s organizations (POs) comprising the farmers, youth, private media and other sectors of the society have joined hands in launching “Sentrong Alyansa ng mga Mamamayan Para sa Bayan” or SAMBAYANAN at the 91st Infantry Battalion headquarters in Bgy. Calabuanan, Baler, Aurora on Wednesday.

Joining the event were POs coming from the towns of Gabaldon, Bongabon and Laur in Nueva Ecija and from the eight towns of Aurora.

Lt. Col. Reandrew P. Rubio, 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion commander, said the launch of SAMBAYANAN was led by Col. Arnel Cabugon, AFP 1st Civil Relations Group commander, who served as the event’s guest of honor and speaker.

Cabugon said the SAMBAYANAN aims to promote nationalism and obedience to national and legal laws under the rule of responsible democracy.

The activity was attended by personnel from the Philippine National Police and the Aurora Police Provincial Office (APPO) along with representatives from 15 POs and 23 former rebels after which it was followed by the distribution of food packs from APPO at the said place.

Rubio thanked SAMBAYANAN which he said has good intentions for the future of the next generation.

“Your desire to protect communities – especially those in isolated and depressed areas – from intrusion of communist terrorist groups are commendable. Let us continue to work hand-in-hand to prevent CTGs from infiltrating your sector. Let us work to the fullest level to end the insurgency in your areas,” Rubio said.

For his part, Major General Alfredo V. Rosario Jr., 7th Infantry “Kaugnay” Division commander, lauded the private sector’s support to the government’s program to curb the decade-long insurgency and its united front, saying they are vital in the attainment of long-lasting peace in conflict-affected communities.

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