BY ASANGAN T. MADALE
MILITARY AUTHORITIES of the Philippine Army’s 106th Infantry “Tigpanalipod” Battalion (106IB) headed by Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Anshary U. Pumbaya have created Salaam Police Task Force Advocacy Group empowering Muslim Community as Agent for Peace, Top Officials said
.
Pumbaya attended the oath-taking ceremonies of newly appointed officers of the Salaam Police Advocacy Group – Regional Office IX (SPAG – RO9) spearheaded by SPAG National President Engr. Yusop Macabada at Municipal Gymnasium, Barangay Población, Alicia, Zamboanga Sibugay Province on February 23, 2023.
The Salaam Police Advocacy Group (SPAG) is a Muslim police organization established by the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) through Memorandum Circular no. 2004-003, approving the operationalization of the SPAG as police force multipliers.
With the objective of maintaining healthy relationships between Muslim communities and the government, SPAG was created to oversee police matters, including handling issues relating to harassment and discrimination against Muslim Filipinos.
Lieutenant Colonel Pumbaya expressed gratitude as he witnessed the momentous event.
“This event marks a significant milestone for our Muslim community in Alicia. SPAG is one of the many efforts of our government in preventing and countering violent extremism.
To be appointed as an officer of the Salaam Police Advocacy Group comes with a responsibility for your community and duty. You are appointed because the people trusted you, and I hope you will use this opportunity to help not only our Muslim brothers and sisters but the entire community of Muslims and Christians.
I hope you will help us in the military and police to protect our country against violent extremist and terrorist recruitments,” he said.
Also present during the event were: SPAG RO9 President Sultan Nasrodin T. Dacula; SPAG National Adviser Engr. Yusop Macadaba; Alicia Municipal Police Station Chief of Police Police Captain Richard Rodolfo A. Patueg; Committee on Muslim Affairs Municipality of Alicia Hon. Said Ahiron Al-Hadz.
Meantime Governor Imelda Quibranza-Dimaporo graced the joint meeting conducted by the municipality of Munai
Municipal Peace and Order Council and Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction held last February in her office.
The agenda was mainly on the recent military operations conducted in the municipality against DI-Maute Group (DI-MG). The AF, in its report believe that the DI-MG has weakened in terms of members and weapons because of their
relentless operation against them, and urges the public not to panic, Military Officials said.
Dimaporo emphasized to the barangay officials its roles responsibilities to keep their barangays and the whole municipality safe by cooperating and collaborating with the AFO and PNP, that they should be the first to know and report the presence of suspected ISIS in their areas of responsibilities.
The Municipal mayor of Munai also brought to the attention of those who are irresponsibly post fake news or give
wrong information in social media which can cause fear in the community , and that they should be held responsible legally accountable.
In attendance during the joint meeting was former Congressman Abdullah D. Dimaporo, Board Members Achmad Taha and Abdani, Deouty Brigade Comdr Col Billy Dela Rosa, of 103rd Infantry (Haribon ) Brigade , Ltcol Christopher Cunanan of 44IB, DILG Lanao del Norte Provincial Director Bruce Colao and LGOO V. Charity Care Lavandera and other members of the Councils.
