THE 4TH Infantry Division (4ID) has deployed some 248 Civilian Active Auxilliary in Bukidnon last Friday, March 8.
Combat clothing and individual equipment (CCIE) were also distributed to the newly trained members of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Units (Cafgu).
8th Infantry Battalion commander Lieutenant Colonel Ronald Illana said the new CAFGUS are part of the Integrated Territorial Defense System (ITDS) purposely to protect communities from the New People’s Army (NPA) and secure national flagship projects of the government.
“In behalf of the Philippine Army we are so very thankful that many of our citizens appreciate the duties and responsibilities rendered of our Filipino soldier. So many are called but few are chosen to become a regular soldier,” he said.
The Cafgu are paramilitary units composed largely of volunteer reservists organized into companies of 120 personnel per company which are handled by a squad of regular troops responsible for providing guidance and control.
The military said the Cafgus are the ones giving information since they have access to the different areas, complete knowledge of the terrain, and direct contacts in the community.
The Cafgus also have the advantage in protecting their villages from outside threats as they are more familiar with the people in their respective communities.
All Cafgu members have undergone a 45-day basic training program that focuses on firearms and small unit tactics.
They also received free health care, initial clothing allowance and monthly stipend amounting to P4,500.
They will also be required to wear uniforms and will be armed with M16, M14 and carbines subject to military laws and regulations.
Another encounter
Meanwhile, government troops of Army’s 23rd Infantry Battalion (23IB) over the weekend recovered firearms and war material after a clash with the New People’s Army (NPA) in Barangay Lower Olave, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.
Lieutenant Colonel Francisco Molina Jr., commander of the 23IB, said some concerned residents reported on the alleged presence of armed men in their area.
Troops proceeded to the area where a five-minute firefight ensued.
While recovering alleged possessions of the rebels, Molina meanwhile thanked the residents of Barangay Lower Olave for providing the information.
“Through the cooperation of the civilian stakeholders, we were able to save lives by thwarting the hostile plans of the CNTs (Communist NPA Terrorists) in using the prohibited anti-personnel mines which can victimize even ordinary civilians,” he said.
“We encourage the CNT members to abandon armed struggle and go back to the folds of the government, live a peaceful life together with their families and loved ones. Our government is open to help you,” he added.