THE 12th Infantry (Lick ’Em) Battalion (12IB) conducted a series of community engagements in Tapaz, Capiz and Calinog, Iloilo on June 27 and 29, 2025, aimed at promoting reconciliation, youth empowerment, and peace building in conflict-affected communities.
Lieutenant Colonel Vicel Jan Garsuta, commanding officer of the 12IB based in Calinog, Iloilo, said, “These activities reflect our continuing commitment to community healing, strengthening partnerships, and building a peaceful future, especially in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.”
On June 29, the battalion carried out a Peace Reconciliation Program in Barangay Aglinab, Tapaz, Capiz, under the theme “Peace Reconciliation – Building Bridges, Healing Wounds, Restoring Community.”
The event was conducted in collaboration with the local government of Tapaz, the Rural Health Unit, Seventh Day Adventist volunteers, and the Philippine Army Finance Center Producers Integrated Cooperative (PAFCPIC) Iloilo Branch.
More than 100 residents from Barangay Aglinab and surrounding sitios availed themselves of free medical consultations, minor procedures, basic medicines, and health education sessions. The outreach also featured information drives on nutrition, peace building, and community wellness.
The initiative provided a venue for reconnecting with former rebels and their families, reaffirming the commitment to unity and healing among communities once divided by conflict.
Two days earlier, on June 27, the 12IB hosted the meeting of the Federation for Reform Initiatives Empowerment Nation-building Development and Service (Friends) Calinog Chapter at its headquarters in Barangay Libot, Calinog, Iloilo.
The event gathered Friends youth leaders and members to discuss current projects, programs, and peace advocacy efforts.
The battalion expressed strong support for Friends and its role in engaging young people in nation-building and steering them away from the influence of deceptive ideologies.
The event highlighted the importance of empowering youth to become leaders and advocates for peace and development.
Through these back-to-back activities, the 12IB reaffirmed its dedication to fostering reconciliation, promoting civic engagement, and addressing the needs of vulnerable communities in Western Visayas. (Leo Solinap)