Extensive cross-section security exercise held in BARMM's regional capital

An extensive territorial defense and community evacuation exercise brought together hundreds of participants from the military, police, and various government agencies in Cotabato City and Maguindanao del Norte, Philippines. The day-long event, held on August 20, simulated inland and offshore defense maneuvers and joint community evacuation drills, aiming to bolster preparedness for security crises and emergencies.

Local community leaders, including Maguindanao del Norte Vice Gov. Marshall Sinsuat and Cotabato City Mayor Bruce Matabalao, expressed their appreciation for the comprehensive drill. They specifically requested that such exercises be replicated every two to three years to enhance community awareness and response capabilities. The involvement of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, the Bangsamoro regional government agencies, and local executives underscored the multi-sectoral nature of the initiative.

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We should not wait for any security crisis that the local communities do not know how to address frontally. It is so important for us, in different government entities, and the public to be prepared for such at all times.

Army Brig. Gen. Ricky Bunayog, acting commander of the 6th ID, highlighted the importance of proactive preparation. "We should not wait for any security crisis that the local communities do not know how to address frontally. It is so important for us, in different government entities, and the public to be prepared for such at all times," Bunayog stated. The exercise involved various units, including the Bureau of Fire Protection, the BARMM regional police command, the Philippine Coast Guard, and the Navy’s 1st Marine Brigade.

Vice Governor Sinsuat expressed his willingness to host similar activities in his hometown, Datu Blah Sinsuat, located on the western coast of Maguindanao del Norte. The successful conduct of the drill, which included securing Cotabato City and parts of Maguindanao del Norte, demonstrated a coordinated effort among different branches of government and security forces to ensure the safety and readiness of the communities.

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We are ready to host such an activity in our municipality in the western coast of Maguindanao de Norte.