SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Aug. 27 -- "Proficient and ready for the next mission," the 30th Infantry Python Battalion (30IB), Philippine Army and 2nd Surigao del Norte Provincial Mobile Force Company (2nd SDN PMFC), Philippine National Police (PNP) said out loud during the closing ceremony of the 30IB-2nd SDN PMFC Inter-Operability Training on August 9, 2019 at the 30IB headquarters, Brgy. Sta Cruz, Placer, Surigao del Norte.

Aligned to the "whole-of-nation" approach by virtue of the issuance of Executive Order (EO) No. 70, series of 2018 to combat terrorism and violent extremism, the participating trainees completed the four-day training that focused on enhancing the tactical competencies and leadership skills of every man in uniform.

"We recognize the efforts of the men and women of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and PNP whose love for the country is paramount than their personal happiness, comfort and convenience. Congratulations to our partners, the highly dedicated peacekeepers. Our province is proud of your efforts in organizing this kind of activity," said Cayetano Recabo, board member of District II, Surigao del Norte.

Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Villarosa, acting commanding officer of 30IB said that the objective of said training is to jointly enhance the capability to provide a secure and safe environment in the province so that the local government units and other agencies will be able to bring their services to the geographically isolated and disadvantage areas (GIDAS) like LASICAM or Brgy. Lahi, Sico-Sico, Camaman-onan.

Meanwhile, Col. Cerilo C. Balaoro, Jr., deputy brigade commander of the 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade said that the PNP and the AFP inter-operability training is a very commendable initiative of both 30IB and the 2nd SDN PMFC to enhance their operational effectiveness.

He further stated that before, the police and the military works hand-in-hand in suppressing the insurgency. Upon the proclamation of RA 8551 also known as the PNP Reform and Reorganization Act, the PNP then focused on law enforcement. However, with the proclamation of EO 546 Series of 2006, the PNP was tasked to once again take an active support role to the AFP in suppressing insurgency.

After the training, the 2nd PMFC and the 30IB are expected to be more aggressive in the conduct of counter-insurgency operations to maintain the peace and security in Surigao del Norte. (1Lt. Wilfredo F. Quilang, Acting Civil-Military Operations Officer, 30IB/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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