57th Infantry Masikap Battalion

29/05/2026

UPI, MAGUINDANAO DEL NORTE — In a historic milestone that coincides with the Municipality of Upi’s 71st Founding Anniversary and Peace Day celebration, the local government formally declared Upi under a State of Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) on May 29, 2026, officially recognizing the municipality’s transition into an insurgency-free community. The declaration, facilitated by the 57th Infantry (MASIKAP) Battalion under the leadership of LTC AERON T GUMABAO INF (GSC) PA, marks the culmination of years of sustained security operations, peacebuilding initiatives, community engagement, and whole-of-government efforts that transformed Upi from a former area of security concern into a model of stability, resilience, and development. Held at the Municipal Gymnasium in Nuro, the event signified a decisive shift from conflict management toward long-term peace, inclusive growth, and socio-economic progress.

The landmark achievement was formalized through the signing of a peace covenant by the Local Government Unit of Upi, the 57th Infantry Battalion, and the Upi Municipal Police Station, symbolizing a united commitment to safeguarding the hard-earned peace achieved by the community. Upi Municipal Mayor Hon. Ma. Rona Cristina Piang-Flores emphasized that the municipality’s success was built on strong collaboration among local leaders, security forces, stakeholders, and the people of Upi themselves. A symbolic dove release further reflected the collective aspiration for unity, reconciliation, and lasting peace. The ceremony was attended by Hon. Datu Tucao Mastura, Governor, Maguindanao del Norte; MGEN JOSE VLADIMIR R CAGARA PA, Division Commander, 6ID, PA/ JTFC, represented by COL RUBEN G AQUINO GSC (INF) PA, Assistant Division Commander for Reservist and Retiree Affairs; BGEN MICHAEL A SANTOS PA, Brigade Commander, 603rd Brigade represented by COL GLEN LORETO T GSC (INF) PA, Deputy Brigade Commander, 603 Infantry Brigade, 6ID, PA; PCOL GEORGE D BAGUNDOL, Provincial Director, Maguindanao del Norte, Police Provincial Office; and MP Ramon A. Piang Sr., Member, BTA BARMM, development partners from UNDP, and the Joint Normalization Committee, all of whom underscored the importance of sustaining peace through good governance, economic opportunity, and community empowerment.

A major component of the celebration was the distribution of livelihood assistance under the UNDP-ASPIRE Project, demonstrating that lasting peace is strengthened not only through security measures but also through economic opportunity and inclusive development. By providing livelihood support to vulnerable sectors, the initiative seeks to address the root causes of conflict while strengthening community resilience against the resurgence of insurgency and violent extremism. As Upi celebrates both its 71st anniversary and its emergence as an insurgency-free municipality, the declaration stands as a powerful testament to the success of sustained peace and development efforts, proving that strong governance, community partnership, and responsive security institutions can transform former conflict-affected areas into communities of stability, opportunity, and hope.

21/05/2026

𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐲 𝐊𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐠

Demonstrating strong civil-military cooperation and a shared commitment to public welfare, the 57th Infantry “Masikap” Battalion, under the direct supervision of CPT RANIER CARL O SAN FRANCISCO (FS) PA, Battalion Civil-Military Operations Officer, joined forces with the Rural Health Unit of Upi, Maguindanao del Norte, in conducting a Health One-Stop Shop Medical Mission at the Covered Court of Barangay Kibleg. The initiative brought essential healthcare services directly to the community, reflecting the continuing efforts of both military and civilian sectors to improve healthcare accessibility and strengthen engagement with local residents.

The humanitarian activity provided critical medical and community services to hundreds of beneficiaries in the area. Medical teams conducted general health consultations for 167 residents, accompanied by the distribution of essential medicines for common illnesses and health concerns. In addition, 57 young boys underwent safe circumcision procedures, while 70 residents also received free haircut services, promoting proper hygiene, wellness, and morale within the community. The mission highlighted the importance of bringing government services closer to geographically challenged communities through coordinated grassroots engagement.

The successful conduct of the activity supports the Philippine Army Transformation Roadmap by strengthening peacebuilding efforts, promoting public trust, and deepening cooperation between the Philippine Army and the communities they serve. Through sustained humanitarian and community-based initiatives, the 57th Infantry Battalion continues to reinforce the principle that genuine security is rooted not only on operational readiness, but also on compassion, public service, and the collective well-being of the people.

21/05/2026

20/05/2026

Kapayapaan, Hindi Armadong Pakikibaka

19/05/2026

𝟓𝟕𝐈𝐁 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐓𝐔𝐆𝐎𝐍 𝐀𝐢𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐫 𝐋𝐓𝐆 𝐌𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐬

COTABATO CITY — The 57th Infantry (MASIKAP) Battalion, represented BY CPT RANIER CARL O SAN FRANCISCO (FS) PA, Battalion Civil-Military Operations Officer, joined the distribution of the second tranche of cash and food assistance under Project TUGON (Tulong ng Gobyernong Nagmamalasakit) for fifty former Local Threat Group (LTG) members from Batch 2026 on May 14 in Cotabato City. Also present during the activity were Atty. Marvin D. Mokamad, Director II of the Interior Affairs Service, PLT JULITO E GONZALES of the Regional Intelligence Unit 12, and PEMS Esmael Amil of the Sultan Kudarat Municipal Police Station.

Led by the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao through the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government, the initiative forms part of the government’s continuing peacebuilding, normalization, and reintegration efforts aimed at helping former LTG members rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society as productive citizens. Through financial and food support, the program seeks to strengthen reconciliation, promote stability, and sustain peace in conflict-affected communities through responsive and inclusive governance.

The participation of the 57IB alongside partner agencies underscores the Philippine Army’s commitment to advancing peace and security through strong inter-agency cooperation and community-centered initiatives. The activity also supports the Army Transformation Roadmap by strengthening a mission-ready and people-focused organization dedicated to preventing the resurgence of local threat groups while promoting long-term stability and socio-economic development in vulnerable comm

16/05/2026

The 57th Infantry (MASIKAP) Battalion participated in an International Humanitarian Law (IHL) orientation conducted by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) on May 13, 2026, at Battalion Headquarters in Camp Edwards, Barangay Mirab, Upi, Maguindanao del Sur. Under the leadership of LTC AERON T GUMABAO INF (GSC) PA, the activity reflected the Battalion’s continuing commitment to professional military service anchored on discipline, accountability, and respect for human dignity even amid complex security operations. Facilitated by ICRC representative Mr. Ricardo Lucero, the orientation gathered officers, enlisted personnel, and key stakeholders to strengthen understanding of civilian protection, lawful conduct during armed conflict, and the responsibilities carried by soldiers in safeguarding both security and human rights.

The activity reinforced the Battalion’s dedication to ethical and rules-based military operations by deepening the troops’ appreciation of the practical application of International Humanitarian Law in the field. Discussions emphasized the importance of operational discipline, restraint, and adherence to both national and international legal standards in the conduct of military missions. The orientation also served to strengthen awareness that effective security operations must remain guided by professionalism, respect for life, and the preservation of public trust within communities affected by conflict.

Aligned with the Philippine Army Transformation Roadmap, the initiative supports the Army’s broader vision of building a capable, responsive, and values-driven organization prepared to address modern security challenges while upholding democratic principles and the rule of law. Through sustained education and continued partnership with organizations such as the ICRC, the 57IB remains steadfast in advancing peacebuilding efforts, fostering stronger cooperation with communities, and promoting a culture of responsible and people-centered service across its area of responsibility.

16/05/2026

14/05/2026

The 57th Infantry (Masikap) Battalion successfully facilitated the voluntary surrender of 48 loose fi****ms in South Upi, Maguindanao del Sur, strengthening ongoing efforts to reduce armed violence and sustain peace in vulnerable communities. Under the leadership of LTC AERON T GUMABAO INF (GSC) PA, the activity reflected growing trust and cooperation among local communities, security forces, and government institutions working together to prevent the spread of illegal weapons and support long-term stability. The initiative also marked a significant milestone as one of the first implementations of the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) Management Program directly at the local government unit level in partnership with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), expanding peacebuilding efforts closer to grassroots communities.

Held at the Municipal Gymnasium of Barangay Romongaob, the turnover ceremony formed part of OPAPRU’s SALW Management Program and included the immediate distribution of livelihood and agricultural assistance packages to beneficiaries. Assistance provided included cows, goats, fertilizers, corn seeds, and sacks of rice aimed at helping families transition from insecurity toward sustainable livelihood and economic recovery. The surrendered fi****ms were formally presented to BGEN MICHAEL A SANTOS, Commander of the 603rd Infantry Brigade, together with South Upi Mayor Helen B. Padua and other national and local officials, reflecting a unified whole-of-government approach toward reconciliation, development, and peace in the province.

The initiative strengthened collaboration among the Armed Forces of the Philippines, local government units, OPAPRU, and peace stakeholders in sustaining stability across conflict-affected areas of Mindanao. In line with the Army Transformation Roadmap, the activity demonstrated the Philippine Army’s continuing commitment not only to security operations and mission readiness, but also to community partnership, responsible governance, and lasting peace through cooperation and development.

06/05/2026

SOUTH UPI, Maguindanao del Sur — The formal turnover of the Tënanud Housing for Peace and Sanctuary Project marked a significant milestone in the continuing effort to strengthen peace, stability, and community development in South Upi. Spearheaded by the Office of MP Froilyn Mendoza of the BTA Parliament in partnership with the Office of South Upi Municipal Mayor Hon. Helen Benito-Padua, the initiative provided thirty-two (32) families with new homes—offering not only shelter, but renewed hope, dignity, and a safer future for communities striving to rebuild their lives. The project reflects the government’s commitment to delivering meaningful and people-centered programs in conflict-affected areas.

The successful completion of the 32 housing units was made possible through the joint collaboration and bayanihan spirit of the Community Support Program Team of the 57th Infantry (MASIKAP) Battalion under the leadership of LTC Aeron T. Gumabao INF (GSC) PA, the Local Government Unit of South Upi, the BARMM Government, and the BLGU of Bongo headed by Punong Barangay Hon. Kulpong Kasim. The activity was further supported by partner agencies including the Philippine National Police led by PLt. Albert F. Alarde, the Joint Peace and Security Team under PSSg. Aratuc Maulana, and the Bureau of Fire Protection represented by SFO3 Ronalf P. Pojas. Their collective efforts demonstrated how strong cooperation among government institutions, security forces, and local leaders can directly improve the lives of communities while strengthening trust and unity on the ground.

Beyond the housing turnover, the activity also brought encouragement and joy to the residents of Sitio Tënanud. Personnel of the 57IB, together with the MASIKAP Mascot, conducted parlor games for local children, while the LGU of South Upi distributed food packs and slippers to the beneficiary families, reaching around 128 individuals. More than a housing initiative, the project stands as a symbol of compassion, shared responsibility, and genuine public service, showing that peace is strengthened not only through security operations, but also through programs that uplift communities, restore dignity, and create opportunities for a better and more peaceful future.

06/05/2026

Demonstrating its commitment to developing disciplined, capable, and mission-oriented leaders, the 57th Infantry (MASIKAP) Battalion, under the leadership of LTC AERON T GUMABAO INF (GSC) PA, successfully conducted a Junior Non-Commissioned Officers Symposium on 04 May 2026 at Headquarters 57IB in Barangay Mirab. The activity highlighted the Battalion’s recognition of junior NCOs as the backbone of small-unit leadership and a critical force in sustaining operational readiness, discipline, and cohesion within the ranks.

The symposium provided an intensive platform for leadership enrichment, focusing on ethical leadership, military discipline, effective communication, and the professional responsibilities carried by emerging NCO leaders. Anchored on the objectives of the Army Transformation Roadmap, the discussions challenged participants to lead with integrity, decisiveness, and accountability while strengthening their ability to guide troops under demanding operational environments. The exchange of field experiences and best practices further enhanced the participants’ understanding of leadership at the tactical level, sharpening both their professional competence and operational mindset.

More than a professional development activity, the symposium reflected the Battalion’s continuing effort to build a more resilient, values-driven, and combat-ready organization capable of meeting evolving security challenges. Through initiatives that strengthen leadership at every level, the 57IB continues to cultivate a culture of excellence, unity, and service which advances the vision of a highly professional and mission-ready Philippine Army committed to safeguarding peace and stability in its area of responsibility.