MIDSAYAP, Cotabato — The Municipality of Midsayap was officially declared Local Terrorist Group/Communist Terrorist Group (LTG/CTG)-free on January 14, 2026, marking a major milestone in the government’s peace and security campaign, as the Philippine Army simultaneously held the Send-Off Ceremony of the 34th Infantry (Reliable) Battalion at its headquarters in Barangay Salunayan.
The historic activity was led by Brigadier General Ricky P. Bunayog, PA, Commander of the 6021st Brigade, 6th Infantry Division, who served as keynote speaker. He was joined by top civilian and military leaders, including Maguindanao del Norte Governor Datu Tucao O. Mastura, North Cotabato Governor Emmylou J. Taliño-Mendoza (represented by Board Members Rose Cabaya and Sittie Eljorie Antao Balisi), SGADA Administrator Butch P. Malang, and Midsayap Mayor Renz Tukuran, along with officials from various LGUs of SGA BARMM and North Cotabato.
The program opened with the singing of the National Anthem and interfaith prayers, followed by the welcome message of Lt. Col. Edgardo B. Batinay, Battalion Commander of the 34th Infantry Battalion. This was highlighted by the formal signing of the declaration proclaiming Midsayap as LTG/CTG-free—an affirmation of the municipality’s improved peace and order situation after years of security operations, community engagement, and cooperation between the military, LGUs, and residents.
As a strong symbol of peace, surrendered loose firearms were formally turned over, followed by a symbolic release of doves, signifying freedom, healing, and a new chapter for the community.
In his message, Lt. Col. Batinay admitted that leaving Midsayap was not easy, but stressed that their departure is part of the Army’s mission to sustain peace in other areas. “Ang pamamaalam ay hindi madali, ngunit ito ay mahalaga para sa pagpapatuloy ng kapayapaan at kaayusan,” he said.
Local officials and residents expressed deep gratitude to the 34th Infantry Battalion for its years of dedicated service in securing communities, dismantling insurgent threats, and helping bring stability to the area.
The second part of the ceremony featured the readiness report and awarding of troops, followed by the inspection and send-off of the 34IB by BGen Bunayog and other key leaders. The event concluded with the singing of the Unit Hymn and “Pilipinas Kong Mahal” by the 34IB troops, led by PFC Jaime T. Coyme and PFC Reyvin W. Requillos as Masters of Ceremony.
As part of the official command swapping, Lt. Col. German Legada, PA, from Rajah Buayan, was introduced as the incoming Commanding Officer-in-Charge of the 33rd Infantry (Makabayan) Battalion, which formally assumed responsibility for the area. He replaced Lt. Col. Batinay, a native of Barangay Salunayan, Midsayap, who in turn took over as Commanding Officer of the 33rd Infantry Battalion.
The smooth transition highlighted the professionalism, discipline, and continuity of leadership within the Philippine Army, ensuring that security gains in Midsayap will be sustained.
Earlier this week, on January 12, 2026, the 34th Infantry Battalion was formally welcomed back into the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division during a flag-raising ceremony at the Division Grandstand, marking its reintegration into the “Tabak family” following a unit realignment ordered by the Philippine Army Headquarters to enhance operational effectiveness.
In his message, Major General Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., Commanding General of the 1st Infantry Division, said the return of the 34IB was not merely a reassignment but “a homecoming,” noting that the battalion traces its roots to Fort Magsaysay, the former headquarters of the 1st Infantry Division.
Activated on February 18, 1974, the 34th Infantry Battalion has served for over five decades across Mindanao, Samar, and the Bangsamoro region, playing a crucial role in counter-insurgency, stability operations, and community peacebuilding.
“Matapos ang mahigit limampung taon ng paglilingkod, ang 34th Infantry Battalion ay tuluyan nang nakauwi,” Barroquillo said, praising the unit’s sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the Filipino people. He assured full divisional support as the battalion begins its new chapter under the Tabak Division.
The ceremony also saw the donning of the Tabak Patch to 32 newly graduated Second Lieutenants and 70 Privates, symbolizing their formal entry into the Division, as well as the promotion to Colonel of Terence P. Ylanan (G3), Andy John R. Tupas (G2), and Christopher V. Dayag, Commanding Officer of Kuta Cesar Sang-an Station Hospital.
The twin events—the declaration of Midsayap as LTG/CTG-free and the redeployment of the 34th Infantry Battalion—stand as powerful proof of the effective partnership between the government, the Armed Forces, and local communities in advancing peace, stability, and development in Cotabato and the wider region.
As Midsayap turns a new page in its history, officials emphasized that sustaining peace will require continued vigilance, unity, and cooperation—ensuring that the hard-won gains will translate into lasting progress and prosperity for the people.