MSAAG Holds Meeting in Davao Oriental

DAVAO ORIENTAL — Further pushing for sustainable peace and development in Southern Mindanao, the members of the Multi-Sector Advisory and Action Group (MSAAG) of the Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry Division converged on Tuesday, November 22, at the Davao Oriental Provincial Capitol for an in-depth discussion on concerns surrounding peace and development in this side of Mindanao. Presided over by MSAAG Chairman, Ednar G. Dayanghirang, the regular meeting tackled updates on the peace and order situation in the division’s areas of responsibility. It also highlighted inclusive partnerships of various stakeholders to address gaps and concerns in peace and development through complementation of efforts.

Among the meeting’s highlight agenda is the identification of strategies on how stakeholders can prevent and counter violent extremism, especially among the youth, as in schools. Dayanghirang, as a former member of the government’s peace panel, pointed out that good governance remains to be the best way to combat insurgency and to counter violent extremism. “Our way to peace is good governance supported by a strong military support and that is what is happening in Davao Oriental. The proof of that is that Davao Oriental is the only province that passed the Seal of Good Local Governance in Davao Region. Good governance complemented by good military performance will result in peace,” he added.

The MSAAG consists of military commanders of the different brigades and battalions covered by the 10th Infantry Division under the command of Major General Noel Clement. The group also includes civilian stakeholders composed of national agencies, the academe, and non-government organization, among others. (Karen Lou Deloso)