Army units, stakeholders hold candle lighting vigil in quest for peace

By Jennifer P. Rendon

 

Government workers and civilian peace advocates on Monday held simultaneous lighting candle-lighting ceremony and in a quest for just and lasting peace.

Different Philippine Army units under the 3rd Infantry Division, the Intelligence Battalion, and other stakeholders spearheaded the Light-A-Candle for Peace and Prayer for Solidarity.

Brigadier General Marion Sison, 301st Infantry Brigade commander, said the activity was in support of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC)’s effort to attain lasting peace.

For Sison, the activity is a symbolism of the people of Panay’s pursuit to end local armed conflict.

“When you do the right thing, you get the feeling of peace and serenity associated with it,” he said.

Sison stressed though, that unity is a vital factor in achieving just and lasting peace not only in Western Visayas but in the whole country, as well.

Prior to this, the 301st IB, together with various sectoral groups and organizations, also participated in the Peace Caravan and Prayer rally in Iloilo City calling to end the 52 years of senseless bloody struggle of the communist-terrorist group.

Peace advocates joined in the ecumenical prayer spearheaded and indignation rally against the New People’s Army.

“The effort of the various sectors who joined this peace caravan is a manifestation of their bravery to stand against the communist terrorist groups’ deceptive recruitment of minors and atrocities against the government troops, vital installations and defenseless civilian,” Sison said.

The Peace Caravan is an initiative of SAMBAYANAN-PANAY, in cooperation with thedifferent stakeholders.

It aims to promote peace, unity and help put an end to communist terrorists’ deception, and motivate other members of the CTG to surrender.