NABALAWAG, Special Geographic Area – The 34th Infantry Battalion (34IB) has reported major strides in advancing peace, education, and community empowerment through its Modified Community Support Program (MCSP) and the Balik-Loob initiative—two key efforts aimed at addressing root causes of social challenges in remote and conflict-affected areas.
Designed as a whole-of-nation approach, MCSP serves as a strategic bridge between government agencies and vulnerable communities. The program focuses on improving education, strengthening values formation, and ensuring that community members actively participate in resolving long-standing issues that hinder development.
A strong show of inter-agency support marked the recent activity highlighting MCSP accomplishments. Among those in attendance were Municipal Administrator Hon. Masulot Mentok; Nabalawag SGA-BARMM Mayor Hon. Datu Rhenz Tukuran; Kadigasan Chairperson Hon. Jasmin E. Mohamad; MAFAR-SGA and Cotabato City Report Officer Mr. Arched Angeles; MSWDO-SGA BARMM representative Ms. Alpha Jyan Aras; Nabalawag Police Chief PCPT Felmor G. Estosane; and Commander of the 602nd Infantry (Liberator) Brigade BGen Ricky P. Bunayog.
Officials emphasized the program’s tangible benefits, particularly its success in empowering local residents and improving coordination among stakeholders, including Local Government Units (LGUs), civil society groups, and peace advocates.
Beyond community development, the Balik-Loob Program—implemented alongside MCSP—continues to pave the way for healing and renewed hope. The initiative supports the reintegration of former combatants and affected families into mainstream society through livelihood assistance, psychosocial interventions, values formation, and financial support.
Security and development officials say the combination of MCSP and Balik-Loob proves that peacebuilding is most effective when communities are given both a voice and a future.
The Philippine Army reiterated that with sustained collaboration, lasting peace and inclusive progress in the Special Geographic Area and other vulnerable regions are no longer distant goals—but ongoing achievements strengthened each day by unity and collective action.