Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija – Eight members of the Indigenous People’s (IPs) community from Cagayan Valley sought help from the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Marilao, Bulacan a week after they walked for many hours from Baclaran to Marilao following an escape from an abusive construction company in Baclaran, Pasay on February 4, 2021.

The Marilao LGU immediately coordinated with the 70th Infantry Battalion who transported the eight individuals to the 703rd Infantry Brigade Headquarters in Brgy. Calaanan, Bongabon, Nueva Ecija.

Based on the initial reports, the continued non-payment of wages prompted the IPs to escape from their miserable situation and eventually ask for help from the LGU of Marilao, Bulacan.

“The troops of the 703rd Brigade gave the IPs food packs before they were transported by the 86th Infantry Battalion to their respective residences in Cagayan Valley,” said 703rd Brigade Commander BGen Andrew D. Costelo.

The undertaking showed the selflessness of soldiers as they fulfill their mandate. Costelo said that army personnel are ready not only in combat but in community service as well. He said further that it is a great pleasure to serve every “Kababayan” as they face battles in life.

Meanwhile, Major General Alfredo V. Rosario Jr., Commander of the 7th Infantry Division, lauded the efforts of all units concerned in the rescue of indigenous peoples who are in distress and in need of assistance.

“Makakaasa kayo na ang ating mga kasundaluhan ay laging naririto upang tulungan ang ating mga kababayan, lalong lalo na ang ating mga kapatid na IPs. Hindi lang kami nandito para protektahan kayo laban sa banta ng terorismo kundi nandirito kami sa oras ng inyong pangangailangan,” said Major General Rosario Jr.