BACOLOD City – Days after the imposition of travel restriction in
Negros Occidental, the Philippine Army’s 303rd Infantry Brigade (303IB) have
begun mobilizing its troops across the province in order to monitor borders and
ward off the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
“The army soldiers will render its support through the employment of its
manpower to handle border controls,” said 303IB commander, Colonel Inocencio
Pasaporte, citing the directive of Gov. Eugenio Lacson.
Pasaporte, however, said since the sealing of borders is expected to last for 30 days, the operation could also take its toll on government troops thus they will engage the services of army reservists. “We will tap our reservists to augment the troops in Bacolod City,” he said.
The army official said the Bacolod City Police Office headed by Colonel Henry Biñas has asked for augmentation personnel for border patrol in two entry points of the city, which has been placed under general community quarantine.
The 605th Community Defense Unit will initially provide some 100 reservists, Pasaporte said.
“Although they will not be deployed in full force, we will adjust their deployment based on the need,” he added.
Pasaporte said the Army appreciates the support and service of reservists during military operations. “That’s why we are strengthening the reserve forces,” he said. (With PNA/PN)
