THE 12th Infantry (Lick ‘Em) Battalion of the Philippine Army conducted a Peace Reconciliation Program (PRP) in Barangay Aglonok, Calinog, Iloilo, on July 17, 2025.
The program aimed to promote peace and support community welfare in the conflict-affected area.
The program included a dialogue with local elders, a medical and dental mission, and a gift-giving activity for residents in this geographically isolated and disadvantaged area.
According to the battalion, the dialogue engaged elders in peace-building discussions and allowed them to voice community concerns. "A key part of the program was a focused dialogue with local elders, where the 12IB heard community concerns, shared peace-building updates, and reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing engagement," the 12IB stated. "The exchange underscored the elders' vital role in unity and cultural preservation in conflict-affected areas."
The outreach provided general medical consultations, dental services, and the distribution of hygiene kits and food packs to families in need.
The local government of Calinog provided a medical team and medicines. The Provincial Government of Iloilo sent food packs and the Provincial Mobile Library. Volunteers from the Calinog Rural Health Unit and the Provincial Library and Archives also joined the activity.
Participants included Sharon Gigante, representative of the Provincial Library and Archives; Mary Rose Matucan from the Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO); Dr. Chivas Larroder, medical retainer; Dr. Luz Abordaje, dentist; and Dr. Charise Caspillo, dental retainer.
The 12IB supports community outreach and inclusive development efforts as part of its peace and reconciliation framework, promoting harmony in former conflict zones. (Leo Solinap/SunStar Philippines)