Army, church heads sign MOU for peace in Abra

By Freddie G. Lazaro

LAGANGILANG, Abra — A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was forged between the military and church leaders in Abra to promote peace and development in the province, according to Col. Eliseo C. Posadas, commander of the Army’s 503rd Brigade based here.

           

During the signing in Bangued, Abra, Posadas represented the Philippine Army while the church was represented by Most Reverend Leopoldo C. Jaucian of the Bishop Diocese of Bangued and Reverend Pastor Faustino Amballang, vice chairman of Abra Ministerial Association (AMA), who came in place of Doreminador E. Subagan, AMA chairman.

            Posadas said MOU aimed to foster harmonious relationship and cooperation between the military and the church in the campaign against insurgency by motivating the rebels to surrender to the government.

            Following the signing of the MOU was the launching of the “Church Military Advisory Group” based at the Parish Pastoral Center in Bangued, Abra.

            The venue will serve the reintegration program of the rebel returnees and the furtherance of local peace talks and negotiations.