Army launches 5-day ‘Bayanihan’ in Antique

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Army in Western Visayas, in coordination with its partner agencies, has launched a five-day Bayanihan Challenge in depressed and formerly insurgency-stricken communities in San Remegio, Antique.

Bayanihan Challenge was simultaneously held in 33 provinces aimed at rebuilding formerly conflict-stricken communities through the spirit of voluntarism.

Col. Arnold Quiapo, 301st Infantry Brigade commander, said the soldiers repaired several schoolbuildings and civilian houses in Barangays Alingalan and Osorio in San Remegio town with the help of volunteers.

“Instead of assault rifles, our troops were armed with shovels, hammers, nails and other carpentry tools to help the poorest of the poor in San Remegio,” Quiapo said.

Quiapo said the Army and civilian volunteers are also building 27 new houses for rebel returnees as well as multi-purpose hall through the P3.4 million funding provided by a foundation and the Gawad Kalinga. 

San Remegio town was the former stronghold of the New People’s Army rebels operating in the eastern part of Panay Island in the 80s until the 90s.

But early this month, the military and police declared Antique as development-ready area after stamping out the insurgency problem in the province.