October 30, 2024 – Sibuco, Zamboanga del Norte: In a determined step toward reinforcing peace and security, the Philippine Marines recently dispatched additional troops to Sibuco, Zamboanga del Norte, a move reflecting renewed urgency following recent kidnapping concerns in the region. The arrival of the 6th Marine Company, led by Commanding Officer 2Lt Jhunnie Mel Cueto, PN (M), was marked by a courtesy call to Mayor Joel M. Ventura, underscoring collaboration between local government and military forces in ensuring a stable environment. Mayor Ventura welcomed the reinforcements, emphasizing Sibuco’s commitment to supporting the Marines’ mission to maintain order and security.
This latest deployment of marine forces is part of the larger effort to combat rising instability, with a focus on preventing further incidents like the kidnapping of Elliot Eastman. Eastman, a foreign national, was abducted in the same region, prompting an outcry and reinforcing concerns over the presence of armed groups operating in remote areas. The additional forces are expected to boost security in vulnerable zones, where local officials are actively cooperating with national authorities to counter potential threats. Commanding Officer 2Lt Kent Lemuel Cultura, PN (M), of the 26th Marine Company, joined in the visit, further highlighting the Marine Battalion Landing Team’s (MBLT) coordinated approach to regional security.
This new phase of marine deployment marks a significant collaboration between Sibuco’s local government and the Philippine Marines, striving for a safer environment and working toward the swift resolution of unsolved cases like Eastman’s, which has left a lasting impact on the community. The initiative comes amid renewed vigilance in Zamboanga del Norte as authorities continue to address security challenges in the southern Philippines.
