Kampilan observes 29th founding day

TOKEN --- ARMM Governor Mujiv. S. Hataman receives a memento from 6th ID Commander Maj. Gen. Carlito G. Galvez, Jr. during the 29^th Foundation Anniversary celebration of the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division held last October 24 at the grand stand of Camp Siongco.  (DPAO)

DATU ODIN SINSUAT, Maguindanao --- The 6^th Infantry (Kampilan) Division took another year of challenges as it observed its 29^th Foundation Anniversary last October 24.

In a ceremony held at the camp’s grand stand, 6th ID Commander Maj. Gen. Carlito G. Galvez, Jr. said the significance of this year’s celebration is the renewal of their commitment and support on the various peace and order measures of the government and in empowering the local government units in order to achieve lasting peace.

“The Kampilan Division is glad on the positive responses of our LGUs. Indeed, we are living up with the theme, “Kampilan: Kaakibat at Sandigan sa Pagsulong tungo sa Mapayapa at Maunlad na Sentral Mindanao,” said Maj. Gen. Galvez.

Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Governor Mujiv S. Hataman, who was the guest of honour in the event, emphasized the strengthening of the regional government’s anti-terrorism campaign.

“We can do this with the help of our LGUs. Like for instance, through the years, many roads have been cemented all throughout the region and this is a good start because our residents even from the farthest barangays could witness our physical accomplishments. With these efforts, they realize our sincerest intent to help them improve and develop their communities,” said Hataman.

Furthermore, Hataman stressed that to date, there is growing number of the Abu Sayaff Group (ASG) members in Basilan who have surrendered to authorities.

“This only attests our truest commitment to achieve lasting peace. Security has been an undying issue through the years, but because of our countless efforts the situation now is changing. In fact, the ones who resist with the presence of the ASG in Al Barka were members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, Moro National Liberation Front, and the residents themselves. They help us and we are very thankful for that,” said Hataman.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Galvez said they continue to set the tone and direction of operational activities within the area of operations.

“This is still in accordance with the national security thrust of the President in destroying the ASG and other allied terrorist or extremist group,” said Maj. Gen. Galvez.

Alongside the municipal mayors of Maguindanao and other guests, Vice-Commander of the Philippine Army, Maj. Gen. Edmundo R. Pangilinan, was also around during the affair.

The 6th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army was established on October 24, 1987 by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, with Brig. General Gonzalo H. Siongco as the first commanding general assigned at its headquarters in Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao. Popularly known as the Kampilan Division, the 6th Infantry Division is one of the Philippine Army's Infantry units in Central Mindanao. (GILMHAR A. LAO)