Peace soldiers, heroes lauds in Maguindanao

By Liezel Miso

At left, Bgen Earl D. Baliao AFP, ADC 6ID,PA bade his warmest handshake to Kampilan Troopers Officer

Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao - Research and documentation was done by this writer after the State of the Regional Address (SORA) of the ARMM Governor Hon. Mujiv Hataman. The Regional Legistative Assembly (RLA) commended an officer of the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division, Philippine Army based in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao for being awarded as one of the ten winners of Metrobank's 2017 Search for Outstanding Filipinos.

RLA resolution no. 746 authored by Assemblyman Datu Khadafef Mangundadatu recognized the contribution of Lieutenant Colonel Ricky Bunayog for "Devoting his time pursuing peaceful resolution of conflicts". The resolution also cited that he facilitated construction of two mosques and the repair of some schools in Maguindanao.

It also stated that Colonel Bunayog was instrumental in the resolution of long-standing "rido" of family feuds in Maguindanao, earning him the "warrior-peacekeeper" award.

Meanwhile, some few days ago on January 8, a Testimonial Review in Honor of Brigadier General Earl D. Baliao, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Assistant Division Commander (ADC), 6^th Infantry Division (ID), Philippine Army, held at Camp Brigadier General Siongco, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao, 6ID Grandstand.

Major General Arnel B. Dela Vega AFP gave the award to Brigadier General Earl D. Baliao, AFP in honor to his selfless service and dedication to our country. Baliao said "Hardwork, commitment and passion alone could not have made me a General." He added “There were things that I share that will remain be a part of my journey, there were forces stronger than my personal value that made me such and today i dedicate this all to them.”

In another development, the missing in action Marine Soldier for seven months was finally found. The Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) renders military honors on January 10, 2018 upon arrival at the PMC Headquarters to a fallen Marine Hero in Marawi City who went missing in action.

The remains of Pvt Alejandro A. Balean PN(M)

The remains of Pvt Alejandro A. Balean PN(M) was reported missing in action since June 9, 2017 in the vicinity of Mapandi Bridge, Brgy Daguduban, Marawi City during the encounter of undetermined number of Maute Local terrorist group (LTG) under Abdulla Maute and Isnilon Hapilon.

The heroism of Pvt Balean and his sacrifices are not in vain. Because of him and other fallen heroes, Marawi was liberated from the hands of the terrorists who wanted to ruin peace. A snappy salute!