PH Army educates learners from 20 schools in Caraga on WPS
By Renelle L. Escuadro
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The Philippine Army (PA), through the 4th Civil-Military Operations (CMO) ‘Kasaligan’ Battalion, has already reached 20 schools across the Caraga region, teaching the youth and learners accurate and relevant information on the West Philippine Sea issue.
This is the statement of Lieutenant Colonel (LtCol.) Regie H. Go, executive director of the 4th CMO ‘Kasaligan’ Battalion, PA, during the Kapihan sa PIA on February 11.
An example is the engagement at Bolhoon National High School, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, on Nov. 18, 2025, where 223 high school students from Grades 7-12 joined and gained essential knowledge about WPS concerns.
The students had the opportunity to watch a film viewing that highlighted the importance of WPS to national security. They also participated in a QR code scanning activity to access additional information about the WPS. Information leaflets were also distributed to reinforce key messages and encourage proactive citizenship.
LtCol. Go also shared that the CMO is mandated to conduct education and awareness campaigns not only in schools, but also in the communities and barangays, so that more Filipinos can understand why the country has the right and has sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea. “Our efforts are significant because we bring the narrative of the government on WPS down to the grassroots communities, especially to the vulnerable sectors.”
“More Filipinos are now helping the country correct disinformation and misinformation on WPS, especially in social media, where there is a battle of the narratives,” LtCol. Go added. “More Caraganons are inspired to support the country in this endeavor.”
For the 4th CMO ‘Kasaligan’ Battalion, the education and awareness campaigns on WPS are carefully conducted to address the vulnerabilities of the communities by empowering them with essential knowledge, fostering dialogue, and strengthening resilience.
The ongoing efforts also strengthen the country’s defense against emerging threats of foreign interference and malign influence, while supporting the broader mission of promoting peace, security, and national unity. (RLE, PIA Dinagat Islands)
