The Philippine Army’s top commander has promised all possible assistance to soldiers and civilian auxiliaries operating in remote areas of Oriental Mindoro, a province that continues to face security issues from communist rebels.

Lieutenant General Roy Galido made the commitment during a visit to the isolated Cabuyao patrol base in Barangay Bansud, Pag-asa town over the weekend, according to Army spokesperson Colonel Louie Dema-ala.

“The Army Chief thanked the troops and the CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA) members for volunteering to enter the noble profession of arms,” Dema-ala said in a statement on Tuesday.

The commander’s visit comes amid ongoing efforts to counter New People’s Army (NPA) insurgents in Oriental Mindoro.

The communist rebels have maintained a presence in the mountainous areas of the province for decades, with sporadic clashes occurring between government forces and insurgents.

Recent weeks have seen an uptick in violence, with several encounters reported between military patrols and suspected NPA units. These confrontations revealed the continuing security problems in the island despite government claims of weakening rebel forces.

During his address to troops, Lt. Gen. Galido cited his commitment to improving living and working conditions at remote outposts like Cabuyao.

He assured personnel of continued health support through programs such as annual physical examinations and centralized messing arrangements designed to strengthen camaraderie among personnel.

“Lt. Gen. Galido lauded the CAA members under the 203rd Infantry Brigade for their crucial role in sustaining internal security gains in Mindoro,” Dema-ala added.

The civilian auxiliary units, which operate under the control of infantry divisions, also serve as first responders during natural disasters and calamities.

Meanwhile, the Army Chief awarded the Wounded Personnel Medal to soldiers injured in the line of duty during his visit.

He also distributed uniforms and supplies to CAA members and promised special attention to those killed, wounded or taken ill while on active service.

The CAFGU (Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit) Active Auxiliary program has been a vital component of the military’s counter-insurgency strategy, particularly in remote areas where regular army presence is limited.

However, human rights groups have previously raised concerns about inadequate training and supervision of some auxiliary units.

The Philippine government has been engaged in on-and-off peace talks with communist rebels for decades, with the latest formal negotiations breaking down in 2017.

President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr. has taken a security-focused approach to the insurgency while maintaining the door remains open for localized peace strategies.

Photos: courtesy of the Philippine Army