GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Philippines — The Philippine Army (PA) has deployed soldiers who will be tasked to undertake peace and development efforts in the conflict-stricken villages of Malita town in Davao del Sur.

Col. Gloriouso Miranda, 1002nd Infantry Brigade (1002nd IB) commander, said the peace and development teams will compose the “Task Group Mulawin” under the command of Lt. Col. Adolfo Espuelas, the commander of the 73rd Infantry Battalion.

Miranda led the send off ceremony early this week of the “peace soldiers” shortly after they took their oath of commitment before local officials led by Vice Mayor Bradly Bautista at the Malita Municipal Hall.

“We express our support to the peace and development efforts of the Army and urged the local and barangay (village) officials to cooperate with the Army teams deployed in their areas,” Bautista said.

Municipal Councilor Marianela Malinao, chairman of the Committee on Budget and Appropriation, said the local government will support the peace and development efforts launched by the military.

She said the Sangguniang Bayan (SB) has approved a resolution that seeks the merging of the Peace and Order Committee and Peace and Development Volunteers – with corresponding funds.

During the send-off ceremony, the soldiers donned the pin printed with “Amigo Ta” (we are friends), which they also pinned to local and village officials.

Espuelas said the “peace soldiers” were trained in civil military operations, oriented to respect human rights and the International Humanitarian Law, and to defend and protect the welfare and rights of the people from any threat from the lawless elements.

He said the soldiers will serve as partners of the local government unit (LGU) and residents in maintaining peace and order in the area.

“Our mission is to enhance the delivery of basic services and maintain stability needed for a sustainable economic development of the locality,” Espuelas said.