Army commanders in Negros and priests from both sides of the island converged in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental yesterday to discuss peace and security, as well as development programs in the 34th meeting of the Church Military Advisory Group.

The meeting was conducted, however, without the presence of media upon the request of church officials.

Army commanders from the 303rd and 302nd brigades had earlier discussed the implementation of Oplan Bayanihan with peace and development, and not the bullets, as the centerpiece in winning the hearts and minds of the people.

Under Oplan Bayanihan, the army will continue to conduct outreach programs, medical missions, feeding programs, complement, collaborate, cooperate with government agencies in various activities and other civil military operations, according to 302nd brigade commander Col Luis Ochotorena.

The paradigm shift started years before with peace and security awareness campaigns in different barangays as well as in school campuses.

As far as the scout rangers are concerned, commanding officer Col. Ariel Felicidario said, “We are supporting the campaign of the two divisions in Negros Island doing things which we don’t usually do, like attending meetings of the CMAG. But we are still built as warfighters for the government to maintain peace, and its mission will not change.”

Meanwhile, 62nd Infantry Batallion commander Col Eduardo Gubat stressed the importance of CMAG as a convergence of military and church people in alleviating the condition of residents in hinterland barangays and as a check and balance for whatever they do.

However, it is intensifying its military operations along with Oplan Bayanihan especially in Northern Negros after clashing with the rebels three times in January this year.  Gubat said the terrorist dissidents are on the run and the military is pursuing a relentless operation against them, while urging them to surrender.*JG

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