Editors Note:

The Makamandag Troopers Magazine is still in its first inception in the

making. Its primary objective is to discuss and showcase the gains of its
internal peace and security operations (IPSO) and significant headways in the
IPSP Bayanihan in Lanao Del Norte as its area of responsibility. Place at its
core objectives, the makamandag troopers shall continually engage
stakeholders as a mechanism for consultation and transparency.
Our
command is directed to exert efforts and explore all possible mechanisms to
achieve multi-stakeholder participation. AFP partners namely government
agencies, NGOs, and Civil Society Organizations shall be consulted through
the process of continued dialogue, information sharing, and consultation.
International observers are likewise most welcomed in providing their
feedback on the IPSPs effectiveness.
As the 35th Makamandag Infantry Battalion celebrates its 12 th refilling
anniversary dubbed with the theme Serbisyong totoo para sa Pagkakaisa,
Kaunlaran at Kapayapaan ng Lanao Del Norte, it is noteworthy to recall its
glorious past as when the 104th Brigade of the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division,
Philippine Army was activated on 26 October 2000 to neutralize the Abu
Sayaff Group, bandits operating in Sulu and Tawi Tawi Provinces. On 29
January 2008, the brigade was redeployed and given Lanao del Norte as its
area of responsibility. In the aftermath of the 18 August atrocity caused by
the group of Abdullah Macapaar aka Bravo, the brigade was among the units
tasked to neutralize this lawless group. The troops of 35th Makamandag
Battalion has proven not only its warrior spirit but the nobility of its service
reputation of bringing back the people together. Hence, the troops had well
kept in mind the reason for which it was created and had performed so well
in the past.

Throughout the years, the Makamandag Battalion troopers remain as a

cohesive unit of committed, disciplined, and motivated soldiers all working
toward the same mission. In line with the commanders command of
philosophy, all the units undertakings are between the Armed Forces and
the the people of Lanao Del Norte which is a clear manifestation of
Bayanihan in action. It embodies the principles of the IPSP Bayanihan which
enjoins all civilian partners and stakeholders in addressing issues and

conflicts that hinder our nation from achieving continuous progress and
development.

We hope that this undertaking will help the AFP in raising the awareness of
our people in participating more in our Bayanihan efforts to achieve our
common goal of a just and lasting peace for our nation