A TOTAL of 85 members of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (Cafgu) Active Auxiliary II graduated on Wednesday, June 14, after they successfully completed the Basic Military Training conducted by the Task Force Davao (TFD).
The new Carfgu Active Auxiliary (CAA) graduates finished their 45-day training which began last April 28. They will act as the force multiplier of the TFD personnel who will be deployed in downtown areas of Davao City and other major entry points for anti and counter-terrorism campaign.
Task Force Davao Deputy Commander Colonel George Joel Lalaquil said the new CAA graduates underwent practical exercises and immediate action drills, which include the law enforcement operations and physical test. They were also taught on the theories on military professionalism and develop their skills for highly urbanized security operations.
Lalaquil said the objectives of the training is to train the newly-recruited CAA with the basic military skills, equipped them with the skill and expertise to complement the unit’s mission, enhance and reinforce their capability in the conduct of security operations in urban areas of Davao City and develop them and become proficient and capable urban security operators.
“The Davao City CAA II companies are placed under the administrative and operational control of Task Force Davao. As such, it will assist TFD and the City Government of Davao to maintain peace and order within its area of operations,” Lalaquil said.
He noted that part of the mandate of the CAAs is to be used in information collection, public information drives, community relations, and development and humanitarian activities.
Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio congratulated the Cafgus and told them to uphold human rights and not abuse the power and authority given to them and lead as example as law-abiding citizen.
Duterte-Carpio emphasized the significance of their work in sustaining the peace and order of the city against lawless armed groups.
“I want you to know that we appreciate the tough nature of your work to ensure that we peacefully sleep at night,” she said.
The mayor reminded the CAAs to make sure they received the right amount of their salary as stated in their contract stands at P7,400 per month.
Francisco Espina, 35, the top of the class and the president, who hails from Davao City, said courage is his weapon to endure the training and reach the finish line.
“One of the factors that pushed me to join the Task Force Davao (TFD) is to render service in my own little ways to help my fellow Dabawenyos,” he said, adding he is now ready to face what lies ahead. (JCR)