By Francis Wakefield
Troops of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion and 63rd Division Reconnaissance Company recently played a friendly basketball game with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Task Force Itihad of the MILF in Brgy. Old Maganoy, Datu Abdullah Sangki, Maguindanao.
The event held last March 7, 2019, is part of the continuing peace initiative of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion to connect people in friendship.
Last February 18, a peace dialogue was held in the said town after rumors came out that the military would attack the MILF community which resulted in massive evacuations.
After the dialogue, it was agreed that a military patrol base will be established in the area.
"Winning is not the most important part of this event but in bringing people from different sectors to work together as a team. This leads to peace and development in the area,” said Ltc Alvin G. Iyog, commanding officer of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion.
Army 6th Infantry Division Chief Major General Cirilito E. Sobejana said the friendship game gave them the opportunity to bond with their former foes.
"The friendship game is our opportunity to exchange thoughts and discover new friendships, to join together in creating a peaceful environment," he said.