by Breezy C. Jimenez

Tubod, Lanao del Norte (10 November) -- The army's 35th Infantry (Makamandag) Battalion, headed by Lt.Col. Sagat M. Bongolan, showed to the civilians that all efforts are geared towards peace and order, unity, economic growth and social development during its booth display showcasing military gears, armaments, unit history, vision and morolandia knives and bolos during the 9th Founding Anniversary of the 104th Infantry (Sultan) Brigade at Maria Cristina, Iligan City, under the theme "Kaagapay ng Mamamayan sa Kapayapaan at Kaunlaran."

Civilians and curious on-lookers are welcomed by Makamandag troopers and were given a briefing as to the Philippine Army's role in Lanao del Norte as regards to peace and order stability, economic progress and social development.

Further, guests are free to hold combat weapons, informed of its uses and have pictures taken, given explanation and demonstration as well on how and when the guns are used.

According to Bongolan, this activity, which is spearheaded by Col. Benito Antonio T. de Leon, Commander of the 104Bde, poses an opportunity for the military to make clear to the civilians their mission and mandate under the law. With this, residents of Lanao del Norte and Iligan City will be assured that military presence herein serve to secure the lives, limbs and properties of the people.

In addition, people will appreciate more the efforts of the Philippine Army since its task does not pertain solely to combat operations but it does involve civil-military operations which somehow eases the living conditions of communities in every unit's areas of operations with medical missions, vetcaps, brigada eskwela activities, feeding programs, to mention a few.

With these endeavors, winning the hearts and minds of the people will pave the way to unity, peace and harmony. The military is indeed one of the vehicles towards peaceful coexistence and links residents despite cultural differences.