19/08/2026
๐๐๐, ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐
๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐
IMPASUGONG, Bukidnon โ On August 19, 2026, choosing dialogue over division, the 8th Infantry (Dependable) Battalion, Philippine Army, and the Diocese of Malaybalay held a dialogue to clarify concerns arising from the April 14, 2026 incident in Sitio Bendum, Barangay Busdi, Malaybalay City, and strengthen cooperation in protecting Indigenous communities.
In his opening statement, Lieutenant Colonel Jeorge R Jallorina, Commanding Officer, 8IB expressed gratitude to the Diocese for initiating the dialogue, emphasizing that the Battalion welcomed the opportunity to build partnership rather than create conflict. He emphasized that while the Army and the Church both share a common concern the welfare, dignity, and security of Indigenous communities. Despite allegations raised in connection with the incident and subsequently circulated on social media, the Battalion chose not to respond with confrontation, but instead to listen, explain, and seek common ground.
During the engagement, 8IB clarified the circumstances surrounding the Bendum incident and explained the security situation in the area, including the measures undertaken in coordination with local authorities. in his presentation, LTC JALLORINA highlighted the 8IB's continuing programs for Indigenous communities, including education, scholarship, livelihood, reconciliation, and Peopleโs Organization empowerment demonstrating that its mission goes beyond security operations and remains focused on the welfare and development of the communities it serves.
A key part of the dialogue was the presentation of Datu Jumong Guaynon a former rebel operating in urban area, who provided an Indigenous perspective on the vulnerabilities of communities to Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) influence. He explained how threat groups may exploit legitimate community activities and pe*****te vulnerable sectors, including religious and other institutions, to gain influence and support.
His revelation helped enlighten the Diocese participants on the complexities of CTG โwhite areaโ operations and the importance of awareness, discernment, and proper coordination when conducting activities in security-vulnerable communities. The dialogue resulted in greater mutual understanding and opened opportunities for stronger coordination among the Philippine Army, Diocese of Malaybalay, Indigenous leaders, local government units, and other stakeholders.
For 8IB, the engagement demonstrated that differences in perception can be transformed into opportunities for understanding and cooperation. The dialogue concluded with both sides expressing their commitment to maintain open communication and strengthen partnership in support of peace, community protection, and the welfare of Indigenous Peoples in Bukidnon.
