The Army's 104th Infantry Battalion (104IB) conducted a briefing and fellowship on May 4, 2026, with Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) community leaders from Siasi and Pandami in Sulu, as part of ongoing efforts to advance and sustain peace initiatives in the province.
Activity Details
The event was organized by the 1102nd Infantry Brigade (1102Bde), which reported that the activity was attended by leaders from the MNLF communities in the island towns of Siasi and Pandami. Both the 1102Bde and 104IB are subordinate units of the 11th Infantry "Alakdan" Division based in Sulu.
Objectives
The 1102Bde stated on Wednesday that the activity aimed to promote peace, strengthen coordination, and reinforce collective action toward stability at the grassroots level. An open forum followed the briefing, providing a platform for dialogue between the Philippine Army and MNLF community leaders and members.
"The session addressed concerns, clarified issues, and bridged gaps to foster mutual understanding," the brigade said in a statement.
Key Messages
Lieutenant Colonel Roy Dalumpines, commander of the 104IB, emphasized that the engagement serves as a vital platform to strengthen collaboration and address existing gaps. He underscored that peace and security cannot be achieved by the military alone but require the collective efforts of all stakeholders.
The briefing also highlighted the declaration and promotion of a Rido-Free, Gun-Free, and Peace-Centered Community (RFGPCC). The activity demonstrated the importance of unity, cooperation, and sustained dialogue in achieving long-term peace and development across Sulu province.
Outcome
Through this initiative, the 104IB continues to strengthen its partnership with local stakeholders in upholding peace, security, and stability in the province. The fellowship concluded with a meaningful boodle fight, symbolizing unity and camaraderie between security forces and MNLF participants.
Dalumpines led the activity, together with First Lieutenant Roylando Garcia and First Lieutenant Mart Kenny Tabao, the battalion's Civil-Military Operations and Intelligence Officers, respectively.
