391 soldiers deployed to boost border checkpoints

By Jennifer P. Rendon

The Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division has answered the call to augment troops deployed in different quarantine control points (QCPs) in Panay Island.

In a statement, the 3rd ID said the deployment of 391 Army personnel is their response to a unified action to contain the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Captain Cenon Pancito III, 3ID spokesperson, said the 3ID, through its Panay-based unit, will be sending troops to the border points in the provinces of Iloilo, Capiz, and Antique as well as to the entry points from and to Iloilo City.

The 301st Infantry Brigade based in Camp Hernandez in Dingle, Iloilo, has sent 57 soldiers: 147 from the 61st Infantry Battalion based in Camp Monteclaro, Dingle, Iloilo; and 187 from the 6th Regional Defense Community Group (6RCDG).

Pancito said the troops would be working with other government law enforcers to conduct joint border monitoring and control measures.

“This move is also done to augment the effort of the local government units (LGUs) in Panay in curbing the spread of the COVID-19 following the declaration of the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) by the respective provinces and key city,” he said.

Pancito said the Philippine Army in Panay would always be ready to extend help especially, in tough times like this where our people need us most.

“We always believe in the spirit of “Bayanihan,” he said.

Pancito also urged the people of Panay to do their share by cooperating with authorities conducting border patrols and checkpoints. “We don’t ask material support from you, all we need is your cooperation. Just stay at your respective homes and pray for our safety, and together we can end this pandemic,” Pancito said.

On Monday, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas confirmed that Philippine Army personnel will help the Philippine National Police (PNP) in maintaining peace and order in Iloilo City amid the COVID-19 threat.

Treñas said the supplies for the Army soldiers will come from donated funds which is easier to utilize because they do not need to go through the public bidding process required by law.

The Pius XII Institute of Catechetical and Social Studies at Jaro Cathedral, which was made available by the Archdiocese of Jaro, will be used as dormitory for 200 PNP and Army personnel who will be temporarily stationed in the city.