terrorism

THE EASTERN Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) on Monday, Oct. 20, joined the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in commemorating the 8th Anniversary of the Marawi Liberation, remembering the crisis not just as a victory, but as a “profound test of courage, unity, and patriotism.”

The solemn flag-raising ceremony, held at the Naval Station Felix Apolinario in Panacan, Davao City, featured EastMinCom’s leadership paying tribute to the heroism and resilience that defined the 2017 siege and its aftermath.

The event, held under the theme “Marawi 8: Sa Tapang, Sa Pagbangon, Sa Kapayapaan”, saw Lt. Gen. Luis Rex D. Bergante, Commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command, lead the proceedings.

Bergante delivered the message of AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., who reflected on the defining chapter in Philippine history.

The message stressed that the battle was not only waged on the streets but was a crucial test for the nation’s unified spirit.

“We honor the valor and sacrifice of our soldiers, police, and reservists, heroes who laid down their lives so that future generations may live freely,” the message stated. “Their courage changed the course of history, and their sacrifice paved the path from destruction to renewal.”

Partnership for lasting peace

The statement further highlighted the critical role played by the local population in Marawi’s recovery, emphasizing their resilience and cooperation in rebuilding the city.

“The people of Marawi chose peace over anger, unity over division, and hope over despair,” the AFP Chief’s message continued.

“The government, on the other hand, committed itself to providing security, humanitarian aid, and sustainable development programs… This partnership between the people and the government is the foundation of lasting peace.”

Also participating in the ceremony were Commodore Dwight Steven M. Dulnoan, EastMinCom deputy commander, and Capt. Archibold Dino C. Delfin, deputy commander of the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao, alongside EastMinCom’s officers, enlisted personnel, and civilian staff.

The event reaffirmed the AFP’s commitment to protecting the freedom and peace secured by the sacrifices made during the 2017 crisis.

Photo courtesy of EastMinCom

COLONEL Hansel Marantan left his post as the Davao City Police Office to embark on a new and “challenging” assignment, confirming his transfer to the Peace Process and Development Center (PPDC) in Camp Crame.

Marantan, who served as DCPO chief for 11 months, shared details of his next role as he formally concluded his tenure on Monday, June 30, 2025.

It’s true that a new position has been given, and it’s a challenging one, because that is the Peace Process and Development Center (PPDC) in Camp Crame,” he told reporters in an ambush interview.

He added that his new role would involve direct engagement with critical national security concerns. “I will be more involved in the processes. I will be dealing with some of the concerns of the government, like the (Moro extremists) BIFF and Abu Sayyaf.”

“We participate in the process to achieve peace, and it’s a thing that we will do,” Marantan explained.

He noted the extensive scope of the office, describing its limits as “very deep and encompassing.”

When asked why he was assigned to a peace process role, Marantan cited a compelling insight from a superior.

“Maybe you will ask me why I was brought to the peace process; well, it’s a very logical observation,” he recounted, quoting PNP chief Nicolas Torre III: “You go there because not into war, but maybe we must understand more what is peace all about because we have been into war.”

Marantan admitted he is still familiarizing himself with the full extent of the office’s functions.

“I have yet to see the real function of the office, but just yesterday, I read the thread of messages; it is indeed a challenging one. You will process peace, and that’s a hard thing to do,” he said.

He alluded to the paradoxical nature of seeking peace, often through past conflicts.

“As I said in my speech earlier, if sometimes you want to attain peace, we go to battle. But in such a case that we wanted to evade it, it happens, so hopefully that won’t happen,” he said.

Cautious about speaking too soon, Marantan concluded, “Let’s see what we can do. I don’t want to speak too soon, let’s see what we can do.”

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EastMinCom marks Marawi liberation anniversary, hails ‘profound test of courage and unity’

Marantan takes on peace process role in Camp Crame