Parang, Maguindanao del Norte – In a significant move to bolster peace and security in the Special Geographic Area (SGA) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), the Philippine National Police Regional Office Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PNP PRO BAR) held a send-off ceremony for 171 police personnel. The event took place on November 30, 2024, at Camp Brigadier General Salipada K. Pendatun, Parang, Maguindanao del Norte.
The personnel, designated as the Special Security Task Group (SSTG), will ensure law enforcement in the eight municipalities of the SGA, namely Pahamuddin, Kadayangan, Nabalawag, Old Kabakan, Kapalawan, Tuugunan, Ligawasan, and Malidagao. Their deployment is crucial not only for maintaining daily peace and security but also in preparation for the 2025 national and local elections and the historic First Bangsamoro parliamentary elections.
Leadership and Vision
PBGEN Romeo J. Macapaz, Regional Director of PRO BAR, spearheaded the event, emphasizing the importance of the task force’s role in upholding law and order in the region.
“This send-off ceremony is proof of our firm commitment to providing an immediate law enforcement presence, ensuring that the eight municipalities in the SGA-BARMM have access to policing services, and securing the general welfare of the public,” PBGEN Macapaz said.
He also reminded the personnel of the values they are expected to embody. “I expect the participating police officers to perform their task with the highest degree of professionalism, dedication, honor, integrity, and courage,” he added.
A Collaborative Effort
The ceremony was graced by notable guests, including Atty. Marvin D. Mokamad, Director II of the Interior Affairs Service and representative of the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government of BARMM (MILG-BARMM). Municipal mayors from the eight SGA municipalities, along with members of the PRO BAR Command Group and Regional Staff, also lent their presence to underline the importance of the initiative.
The deployment of the SSTG is seen as a proactive measure to address the unique challenges in the SGA and ensure the region’s stability during this pivotal period in BARMM’s governance.
The 171 PRO BAR personnel are expected to begin their mission immediately, fostering an environment of peace and order as the region prepares for its forthcoming political milestones.