FIVE members of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (Cafgu) stationed at the Dalagsaan Patrol Base in Libacao, Aklan were honored for their service in maintaining peace and security during a Serbisyo Caravan held in Barangay Dalagsaan on June 16, 2025.
Lieutenant Colonel Jovert Pimentel, Commanding Officer of the 82nd Infantry (Bantay Laya) Battalion, awarded medals to the Cafgu members in recognition of their dedication to safeguarding one of the most remote and isolated areas in the province.
"Honoring these individuals powerfully underscores the Cafgu's crucial role in protecting geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. Their commitment to their neighbors' safety and well-being exemplifies dedication and selflessness,” said Major General Michael Samson, commander of the 3rd Infantry (Speadhead) Division.
He praised the unsung heroes as community guardians and called for their service to be celebrated.
The awarding ceremony was held as part of the Serbisyo Caravan, a government outreach initiative that delivers essential services such as medical checkups, livelihood assistance, and public information drives to far-flung communities. The event was organized to reach underserved residents of Barangay Dalagsaan.
Aside from the awarding of medals, the Cafgu members also participated in a two-day Leadership and Organizational Development Training held from June 15 to 16, 2025.
Conducted by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the training aimed to strengthen the CAFGU members’ skills in leadership, community engagement, and peacekeeping, enhancing their effectiveness in supporting Territorial Defense Operations (TDO).
The program was complemented by the distribution of P600,000 worth of livelihood support through the DSWD’s Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP).
This support is intended to provide economic opportunities and promote self-reliance among Cafgu members and their families, reinforcing long-term peace and development in the area.
Samson emphasized the Cafgu’s important role as force multipliers. “As force multipliers, not regular soldiers, these Cafgu members risk their lives daily to protect their communities. Their dedication inspires us all. Let their example motivate us to contribute to building a safe, peaceful, and progressive region,” he said.
He called on citizens across Western Visayas to emulate the dedication shown by Cafgu members in Barangay Dalagsaan, saying, “Every act of kindness, every effort to support our neighbors, and every commitment to fostering understanding strengthens our society. Let’s all work to make Panay and Western Visayas as safe as the Cafgu members have made Barangay Dalagsaan.”
The recognition of Cafgu members, delivery of social services, capacity-building sessions, and livelihood aid distribution in Barangay Dalagsaan reflect the government’s continued efforts to reach the most remote areas of the country and uplift communities that serve as key pillars of peace and development. (Leo Solinap/SunStar Philippines)