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.