FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija — The 69th Infantry Battalion (69IB) of the Philippine Army recently conducted a one-day seminar on violent extremism attended by some 120 youth leaders from Guimba town.
Major General Lenard T. Agustin, commander of the 7th Infantry Division, said the seminar aimed to enlighten the youth about the dynamics of violent extremism and how to counter it, and deepen their understanding on the infiltration and recruitment of the National People’s Army and other terrorist groups in their sector.
“The youths are the most vulnerable targets of the communist terrorist groups’ (CTG) recruitment. This activity is an effective way to empower and guide them to resist being recruited to join organizations that will destroy their future, like the CTGs,” Agustin said.
Moreover, Lieutenant Colonel Arcadio S. Posada, commanding officer of 69IB, appreciated the commitment to peace expressed by the youth leaders.
“Commitment to peace by the youth is a welcome development. If all youth will develop within themselves this mindset, who can stop us from finally achieving our aspirations of peace?,” he said.
Meanwhile, Josh Gadut, the Sangguniang Kabataan chairperson of Barangay Galvan, Guimba, said he and his fellow participants were awakened about the misplaced ideologies of the CTGs, as they became more aware of the recruitment schemes of extremists.
“As the Army gives their best to protect us from terrorist recruiters, let’s be thankful. Let us be vigilant as well. Let us support the Army in their endeavor for peace,” Gadut expressed.
Dubbed as “Awareness on Communism Terrorism and Security for Peace Seminar” the activity was held in partnership with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity. (CLJD/WLB-PIA 3)
Youth leaders express commitment to peace and support to the Philippine Army in its peace endeavors. (Army 7th Infantry Division)