2nd Mechanized Infantry "Makasag" Battalion

05/09/2026

Inspiring Young Minds: 2nd Mechanized Infantry (MAKASAG) Battalion Strengthens Army-Academe Partnership Through Educational Tour

President Quirino, Sultan Kudarat | 04 September 2026

In line with its commitment to community engagement and youth development, the 2nd Mechanized Infantry (MAKASAG) Battalion, Philippine Army under the leadership of LTC RAUL P ESCAT ARM (GSC) PA warmly welcomed the Kindergarten pupils of Cherubim Methodist Learning Center, Inc., together with their teachers and parents, during an educational tour at the Battalion Headquarters in Brgy. Tual, President Quirino, Sultan Kudarat, on 04 September 2026.

The activity was facilitated by the Battalion staff, who guided the young learners through interactive and age-appropriate activities designed to introduce them to the Philippine Army and its role in promoting peace and security. Highlights included a static display of military assets, a presentation of Army uniforms and equipment, and an orientation on the roles and functions of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Through these activities, the pupils gained firsthand exposure to the Army's mission while developing an appreciation for the values of discipline, service, teamwork, and patriotism. The educational tour also provided an opportunity for the young learners to interact with soldiers in a safe and welcoming environment, helping foster a positive understanding of the military and its role in serving the community.

The MAKASAG Battalion expressed its appreciation to Cherubim Methodist Learning Center, Inc. for including the unit in the pupils' educational journey. The activity highlighted the importance of engaging the youth in meaningful and educational activities that inspire them to become responsible, disciplined, and patriotic citizens.

More importantly, the visit strengthened the partnership between the Philippine Army and the academe, demonstrating that community engagement extends beyond security operations. Through sustained and positive interaction with the youth, the MAKASAG Battalion continues to build trust, strengthen community relations, and contribute to developing the next generation of responsible citizens and future leaders.

03/09/2026

02/09/2026

MAKASAG Battalion, LGU GSKP, and Partners Strengthen Peace through Loose Fi****ms Turnover

GENERAL SALIPADA K. PENDATUN, Maguindanao del Sur — The 2nd Mechanized Infantry (MAKASAG) Battalion, Armor Division, Philippine Army, reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the government’s campaign against illegal and loose fi****ms through its participation in the “Turn-Over of Loose Fi****ms” Ceremony held at the Municipal Hall of General Salipada K. Pendatun, Maguindanao del Sur, on 02 September 2026.

The activity was spearheaded by the Local Government Unit (LGU) of General Salipada K. Pendatun in partnership with various government agencies and security sectors as part of the continuing efforts to strengthen peace, public order, and community safety within the municipality.

Present during the ceremony were LTC Raul P. Escat (ARM) GSC PA, CO of 2nd Mech Bn,; 1LT Roy Manuel A. Pelijo (ARM) PA, Commanding Officer of the 23rd Mechanized (Explorer) Company; and PLt Samer J. Kasan, Acting Chief of Police, GSKP, MDS.

The activity was led by Hon. Meilyn Dimalna Ali, Municipal Mayor of General Salipada K. Pendatun, and Hon. Rafsanjani Pendatun Ali, former Municipal Mayor, together with barangay chairpersons, local officials, religious leaders, and community stakeholders. In their respective messages, the leaders emphasized the importance of unity, cooperation, and shared responsibility among government agencies, security forces, and the community in sustaining peace and order. They likewise encouraged the continued support of the public in programs aimed at reducing the proliferation of loose fi****ms and preventing violence and criminality.

As part of the ceremony, assorted fi****ms and am******on were formally turned over to the 2nd Mech Bn through the 23rd Mech Coy. Among the surrendered items were:

• One (1) M1 Garand R***e, Caliber .30, Serial No. 319875;
• One (1) M14 R***e, Caliber 7.62mm, Serial No. 1859816 (fabricated);
• One (1) Ingram Mac Design, 9x19mm (fabricated);
• Six (6) Rocket-Propelled Gr***de (RPG) Launchers (fabricated);
• Four (4) U*I submachine guns;
• One (1) KZ9, Caliber .45;
• One (1) MAT-49, 9x19mm (fabricated);
• One (1) Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum;
• One (1) Star Z .45 design (fabricated);
• Two (2) 12-gauge sh****ns (fabricated);
• Twenty (20) rounds of 9mm am******on (serviceable); and
• Three (3) rounds of 12-gauge am******on (serviceable).

The successful turnover reflects the growing trust, cooperation, and confidence of the community in government and security sector initiatives. It also contributes significantly to preventing violence, criminality, and the proliferation of loose fi****ms within the province.

During the activity, LTC Escat relayed the message of BGEN OMAR V OROZCO PA, Commander, 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade, Armor Div emphasizing the Philippine Army’s continued commitment to working closely with local government units, law enforcement agencies, and communities in addressing the proliferation of loose fi****ms. The message highlighted the importance of voluntary surrender, community participation, and sustained cooperation in maintaining peace and security in the area.

LTC Escat further emphasized that peace is everyone’s responsibility. He urged the community to support the Balik-Baril Program, voluntarily surrender loose fi****ms, and work collectively with government and security forces to maintain a safe, peaceful, and orderly community, particularly in preparation for the upcoming BARMM Elections.

The activity serves as a testament to the continuing collaboration among the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, Local Government Units, and the community in advancing long-term peace, security, and stability in Maguindanao del Sur.

16/08/2026

Building Enduring Peace Through Partnership: 2nd Mechanized Infantry (MAKASAG) Battalion Convenes another Partners for Peace Meeting.

14 August 2026 | Brgy. Tual, President Quirino, Sultan Kudarat

The 2nd Mechanized Infantry (MAKASAG) Battalion, Armor (Pambato) Division, Philippine Army successfully convened another Partners for Peace Meeting on 14 August 2026 at Brgy. Tual, President Quirino, Sultan Kudarat. The dialogue brought together commanders and representatives of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (M**F), Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), local government units (LGUs), and other stakeholders to strengthen collaboration and reaffirm their shared commitment to peace, security, and development within the battalion’s Area of Operations.

The meeting addressed prevailing peace and security concerns in Datu Paglas and Mangudadatu, Maguindanao del Sur. M**F and MNLF leaders were reminded of their vital role in preventing horizontal conflicts, countering peace spoilers, and promoting stability in their communities.

Commanders from the 109th Base Command of the M**F-BIAF, 2nd Dragon Brigade Command, 4th Brigade, 1st Division, MNLF, and National Striking Force Command pledged continued support to the Armed Forces of the Philippines in preserving peace and maintaining public order.

BGEN Omar V. Orozco PA, Commander, 1st Mechanized Brigade, commended the M**F and MNLF leadership for their commitment, emphasizing the importance of cooperation to ensure the peaceful and credible conduct of the first Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election. Local officials, including Hon. Fritz Ian Mangudadatu, ABC President of Mangudadatu Municipality, and Hon. Jerry Dimapalao, SB Member of Datu Paglas, praised the initiative as a significant step toward unity and peace.

The event was attended by COL Emil Rex Santos, ARM (GSC) PA, Commander, Task Force Talakudong and Deputy Brigade Commander, 1st Mechanized Brigade; LTC Raul P. Escat, ARM (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer, 2nd Mechanized Infantry (MAKASAG) Battalion; and municipal officials from Datu Paglas and Mangudadatu.
A highlight of the meeting was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the Partners for Peace Initiative between the 1st Mechanized Brigade and the M**F and MNLF, symbolizing collective commitment to cooperation, conflict prevention, and peacebuilding.

In his closing remarks, LTC Escat expressed gratitude to all participants for their unwavering support. He urged M**F and MNLF commanders to exercise responsible leadership and remain vigilant against groups seeking to disrupt the peace process, reiterating the 1st Mechanized Brigade Commander’s guidance on sustaining close coordination among stakeholders.

31/07/2026

Happy Birthday to you sir, BGEN LAURO G OLIVEROS PA, Assistant Division Commander, Armor (Pambato) Division, Philipine Army.

From the Officers and Enlisted Personnel of 2nd Mechanized Infantry (Makasag) Battalion.

27/07/2026

Building Enduring Peace Through Partnership: 2nd Mechanized Infantry (MAKASAG) Battalion Convenes Partners for Peace Meeting

27 July 2026 | Brgy. New Cebu, Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat

The The 2nd Mechanized Infantry (MAKASAG) Battalion, Armor (Pambato) Division, Philippine Army, successfully convened a Partners for Peace Meeting on 27 July 2026 at Brgy. New Cebu, Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat. The activity brought together commanders and representatives of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (M**F), Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), local government units (LGUs), and other key stakeholders to strengthen collaboration and reaffirm their shared commitment to sustaining peace, security, and development within the battalion's Area of Operations.

The meeting focused on addressing prevailing peace and security concerns in the municipalities of Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat, and Sultan Sa Barongis, Maguindanao del Sur. In line with the Government's ongoing peace process, M**F and MNLF leaders were reminded of their vital role as partners in preventing horizontal conflicts, countering the influence of peace spoilers, and promoting stability in their respective communities.

During the dialogue, commanders from the 105th, 106th, 108th, and 128th Base Commands of the M**F-BIAF, together with representatives of the NASCOM Striking Force of the MNLF, pledged their continued support to the Armed Forces of the Philippines in preserving peace and maintaining public order within the area.

In his message, BGEN Omar V Orozco PA, Commander, 1st Mechanized Brigade, expressed his appreciation for the commitment demonstrated by the M**F and MNLF leadership. He emphasized the importance of sustaining cooperation to ensure the peaceful, orderly, and credible conduct of the first Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election. Hon. Norhato Sanday, Vice Mayor of Lambayong, likewise commended the 1st Mechanized Brigade and the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion for initiating the dialogue, recognizing it as a significant step toward strengthening peace and unity among stakeholders.

The activity was attended by COL Emil Rex Santos, ARM (GSC) PA, Commander, Task Force Talakudong and Deputy Brigade Commander, 1st Mechanized Brigade; LTC Raul P Escat, ARM (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer, 2nd Mechanized Infantry (MAKASAG) Battalion; 1LT Roy Manuel A Pelijo (ARM) PA, Commanding Officer, 23rd Mechanized Company; along with municipal and barangay officials from Lambayong and Sultan sa Barongis.

A highlight of the event was the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the Partners for Peace Initiative between the 1st Mechanized Brigade and the M**F and MNLF. The agreement symbolizes the parties' collective commitment to strengthening cooperation, preventing conflict, and supporting peace and order initiatives throughout the area.

In his closing remarks, LTC Escat expressed his gratitude to all participants for their unwavering support of the peace initiative. He urged the M**F and MNLF commanders to continue exercising responsible leadership over their respective forces and remain vigilant against individuals or groups seeking to disrupt the peace process. He also reiterated the 1st Mech Brigade Commander's guidance on sustaining close coordination and unity of effort among all stakeholders.

The activity concluded with a simple boodle fight, symbolizing camaraderie, mutual trust, and the enduring partnership among the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Peace Inclined Armed Groups, local government units, and community stakeholders in advancing lasting peace and development in Central Mindanao.

25/07/2026

“MAKASAG Battalion Mobilizes for Flood Rescue, Assists Over 4,700 Families in Two Municipalities”

24 July 2026 | Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat and Sultan sa Barongis, Maguindanao del Sur

The 2nd Mechanized Infantry (MAKASAG) Battalion, Philippine Army, under the leadership of LTC Raul P Escat ARM (GSC) PA, promptly responded to severe flooding that affected communities in Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat, and Sultan sa Barongis, Maguindanao del Sur on 24 July 2026. The rescue effort was led by 1LT Roy Manuel Pelijo (ARM) PA, Commanding Officer of the 23rd Mechanized Company.

Troops were immediately deployed to assist residents affected by rising floodwaters and facilitate the safe evacuation of families from vulnerable areas. The operation was conducted in close coordination with the Local Government Units (LGUs), Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (MDRRMOs), Philippine National Police (PNP), and community volunteers, demonstrating the importance of unified action during emergencies.

Through sustained rescue, and evacuation efforts, the operation provided assistance to approximately 1,926 families in Lambayong and 2,821 families in Sultan sa Barongis, despite challenging weather conditions, flooded roads, and difficult terrain. The timely intervention of the soldiers helped protect lives and provide immediate support to communities affected by the disaster.

The operation highlights the Philippine Army’s unwavering commitment to its Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) mandate and its readiness to support civil authorities during emergencies. More than a rescue mission, the deployment reflected the Army’s continuing commitment to protecting communities and serving the people, especially during times of crisis.

The 2nd Mechanized Infantry (MAKASAG) Battalion remains ready to respond whenever called upon and encourages the public to remain vigilant, heed advisories, and cooperate with local authorities to ensure the safety and security of communities during severe weather and other emergencies.

19/07/2026

Enhancing Peace and Stability Through Strategic Dialogue: 2nd Mechanized Infantry (MAKASAG) Battalion Participates in Parliament Meeting with MNLF-MF

16 July 2026 | Brgy. Maslabeng, Buluan, Maguindanao del Sur

The 2nd Mechanized Infantry (MAKASAG) Battalion participated in a Parliament Meeting with the leadership of the Moro National Liberation Front–Misuari Faction (MNLF-MF) on 16 July 2026 at Brgy. Maslabeng, Buluan, Maguindanao del Sur. The activity aimed to strengthen dialogue, promote mutual trust, and reinforce cooperation in support of the Government's peace and normalization efforts in the Bangsamoro Region.

Representing the battalion were LTC Raul P. Escat, ARM (GSC) PA, Battalion Commander, and 1LT Marvin Voluntad (ARM) PA, Acting Company Commander of the 21st Mechanized Company. The MNLF-MF delegation was led by Jamalludin Abdullah Jr., Chairman of the Dragon Border Command, together with key officials of the National Dragon Border Command.

The meeting served as a strategic platform to discuss peace and security concerns, strengthen confidence-building measures, and enhance collaboration in maintaining stability within the battalion's area of operations. Both parties emphasized the importance of sustained dialogue, mutual cooperation, and active stakeholder engagement in preserving peace and preventing the resurgence of conflict.

The successful engagement highlighted the Philippine Army's commitment to the Whole-of-Nation Approach by fostering constructive partnerships with key stakeholders in support of lasting peace and sustainable development. The activity concluded with both the Philippine Army and the MNLF-MF reaffirming their commitment to maintaining open communication and working together to promote a peaceful, secure, and progressive Bangsamoro Region.

18/07/2026

ANNUAL GENERAL INSPECTION REINFORCES MAKASAG BATTALION'S COMMITMENT TO OPERATIONAL READINESS AND GOOD GOVERNANCE

PRESIDENT QUIRINO, Sultan Kudarat — As part of the Philippine Army's continuing commitment to organizational excellence and operational readiness, the Inspector General of the Armor Division, COL Norberto P. Aromin Jr., GSC (ARM) PA, conducted the Annual General Inspection (AGI) of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry (MAKASAG) Battalion at its headquarters in Barangay Tual, President Quirino, Sultan Kudarat.

Upon his arrival, COL Aromin was accorded appropriate arrival honors and warmly received by LTC Raul P. Escat, GSC (ARM) PA, Commanding Officer, together with the unit's officers, key NCOs. The inspection comprehensively assessed the Battalion's compliance with Philippine Army policies, administrative systems, operational readiness standards, logistics management, and facility maintenance. The Inspector General Team conducted an extensive review of command records, operational documents, financial and administrative reports, logistics accounts, and personnel management systems to ensure adherence to established regulations, accountability measures, and institutional standards.

Beyond document validation, the inspection included a thorough assessment of the Battalion's key facilities, including offices, motor pool, supply and logistics areas, barracks, and other mission-support infrastructure. The evaluation focused on operational functionality, safety, maintenance, organization, and overall readiness to effectively support the Battalion's operational requirements and troop welfare.

The activity also provided an opportunity to identify areas for improvement, allowing the Inspector General Team to provide constructive recommendations aimed at enhancing organizational performance, internal control systems, and mission capability.

During the exit briefing, COL Aromin commended the officers, and enlisted personnel for their professionalism, discipline, and unwavering commitment to excellence. He emphasized that regular inspections serve not merely as compliance mechanisms but as opportunities to strengthen leadership, improve organizational systems, reinforce accountability, and cultivate a culture of continuous improvement across the organization.

The successful conduct of the Annual General Inspection underscores the Armor Division's steadfast commitment to good governance, transparency, and institutional integrity while reinforcing the Philippine Army's pursuit of a highly capable, disciplined, and mission-ready force. The 2nd Mechanized Infantry (MAKASAG) Battalion remains committed to sustaining the highest standards of operational excellence, accountability, and public service in fulfilling its mandate of protecting the people and securing the peace.