TROPA Mindanao Strengthens Ties with 10th Infantry Agila Division Through Camp Visitations

 

TROPA Mindanao solidified its collaboration with the military through a month-long series of visits to various camps under the 10th Infantry Agila Division's jurisdiction earlier this year. This initiative, aimed at bolstering trust and cooperation between the media organization and the military, underscores their shared commitment to sustaining peace and development across the region.

The camp visitations, which spanned Region 11 and Bukidnon, were the brainchild of former 10th ID spokesperson Major Mark Anthony Tito. His vision was to foster closer ties between the media and the military, particularly with TROPA Mindanao, while providing the media with firsthand knowledge of the military’s latest programs and activities. Understanding the importance of this initiative, TROPA eagerly embraced the idea, recognizing it as a valuable opportunity to strengthen the bond and camaraderie between the media and the military.

To maximize the number of camps visited, TROPA members made the sacrifice of waking up early every Saturday, as many of these camps are located in remote, mountainous areas. This commitment paid off, with the group successfully visiting numerous camps throughout Mindanao.

Among the camps visited was the 66th Infantry Kabalikat Battalion in Barangay Dawan, Mati City, under the command of LTC Michael G. Yuson. Yuson shared with TROPA that his soldiers are dedicated to maintaining peace and order in Davao Oriental and parts of Davao de Oro.

Another significant visit was to the 60th Mediator Battalion in Asuncion, Davao del Norte, where TROPA witnessed a two-day Bagani Summit for the Ata-Manobo tribal warriors from Laak, Davao de Oro, on May 10-11. The summit, attended by 142 tribal leaders, focused on the importance of peace, development, and territorial defense to prevent terrorist communist rebels from reentering the region, which is now declared insurgency-free. The provincial government of Davao de Oro also supported this vital initiative.

TROPA’s journey continued with visits to the 73rd Infantry Neutralizer Battalion, under LTC Jaicris Jan Mendoza, and the 39th Infantry Battalion, led by LTC Anthony Fer Solamo. The group also visited the 48th Infantry Battalion in Maramag, Bukidnon, on May 4. From Maramag, TROPA-Mindanao officers proceeded to the 72nd Infantry Battalion’s camp in Arakan, North Cotabato, traversing the challenging roads connecting Davao City and Cotabato via Buda.

These camp visitations are a milestone for TROPA, marking a significant achievement in 2024 that the group cherishes. The endeavor not only deepened the relationship between the media and military but also provided invaluable insights into the efforts being made to maintain peace and security in Mindanao.(Bob Braceros)