AMPATUAN, Maguindanao del Sur (September 25, 2025) – The Philippine Army, through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), spearheaded a People’s Organization Enhancement Training to strengthen the role of local groups in promoting peace and development. The activity was held at the headquarters of the 33rd Infantry (Makabayan) Battalion in Barangay Zapakan, Buayan Kingdom.
The initiative, under the leadership of Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete, Commanding General of the Philippine Army, is part of continuing efforts to assist migrants, civil society groups, and former combatants in rebuilding their lives and becoming partners in nation-building.
Thirty members of various People’s Organizations participated, alongside government donors and officers from the 601st Infantry (Unifier) Brigade led by Brig. Gen. Edgar L. Catu. The training aimed to enhance the participants’ organizational capacity and equip them with skills to function as productive citizens contributing to long-term peace.
The sessions included Records Management and Monitoring Training, facilitated by Ms. Monera Michelle P. Lumenda, Social Welfare Assistant of MSSD-Rajah Buayan. The module emphasized the importance of proper documentation, accountability, and transparency in organizational management. Participants learned systematic record-keeping, reporting, and monitoring techniques to ensure continuity of projects and organizational sustainability.
Another component was the Psychosocial Transformation Training, conducted by Ms. Bai Sarah Mamalangkap, Midwife II and Mental Health Focal. The training focused on healing, resilience, and positive transformation, particularly for returnees. It addressed stress management, trauma recovery, and strengthening community relationships, while building confidence and instilling a renewed sense of purpose.
In his remarks, Lt. Col. Germen T. Legada, Commanding Officer of the 33rd IB, commended the participants for their willingness to learn and adapt. “Your progress is not only your success, but the success of the whole nation that seeks peace and prosperity,” he said.
Brig. Gen. Catu likewise lauded the initiative, stressing that training programs like this highlight the potential of returnees to become role models in their communities. “Training is a step towards progress that proves there is a brighter future for everyone, including your family and the entire community,” he said.
Maj. Gen. Donald M. Gumiran, Commander of the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division and Joint Task Force Central, also commended the 601st Brigade, 33rd IB, and partner agencies for combining organizational and psychosocial support. “By imparting knowledge on records management and at the same time caring for mental and emotional aspects, we are not only strengthening the organization but also empowering each individual to be partners in peace and development,” he emphasized.
The training forms part of the Army’s broader peace and development initiatives in Maguindanao del Sur, reinforcing the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable peace in conflict-affected areas.