THE 403RD Infantry Brigade headquarters served as the backdrop for a “Kasalang Bayan” (mass wedding) for 15 couples of “friends rescued” (former rebels) at Camp Osito D. Bahian, Impalambong, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, on March 28, 2026.
The event, spearheaded by Brigadier General Seigfred C. Tubalado, commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, aimed to provide the former rebels with the legal recognition necessary to secure the future of their children and families.
“When these couples say ‘I do,’ they are also saying ‘yes’ to a peaceful, productive life within our community,” Tubalado said. “The 403rd Brigade and our partners are honored to stand as witnesses to their new beginning.”
The Kasalang Bayan was made possible through a multi-sectoral effort involving local stakeholders and private sponsors, who provided all the essentials for the ceremony, including wedding rings, bridal gowns, barongs, and a full wedding banquet.
The military noted that providing a dignified ceremony is a crucial component of the psychological and social reintegration of former combatants.
Military officials emphasized that the mass wedding is a tangible success of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
As these 15 couples transition into civilian life, the 403rd Brigade reiterated its commitment to sustaining localized peace engagements that address the needs of those returning to the fold of the law.
