A total of 150 newly civilian volunteers recruits have completed the basic CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA) military training yesterday at the headquarters of the 302nd Brigade at Camp Leon Kilat, Tanjay City.

In his talk to the graduates, Governor Roel Degamo asked them to be emissaries of peace as insurgency and other related problems cannot be solved by military approach alone.

According to Information Officer Major Conrado Evangelista of the 302nd Infantry Brigade the 45-day training provides basic military knowledge and combat skills, and introduces trainees to the regimented life in the military.

Maj. Evangelista said the new batch of graduates came from the different municipalities of the province and will be deployed to the different CAA detachments ready to serve and protect the Negrenses.

The army trainees augment the regular forces of the Philippine Army in order to preserve the peace and security conditions in the province.

Gov. Degamo also cited the HELP approach for peace and development of the region which stand for Health, Education, Livelihood Programs and Projects to strengthen the basic foundation to attain total peace in Negros Oriental.

The provincial chief executive ended his speech by recognizing the efforts of the Philippine Army as partner for economic development and as peace advocates in the region, said Evangelista.

Brigade Commander Francisco Patrimonio congratulated the new CAA graduates and also said the army continues to support the province for lasting peace and development.

During the program, Col Christopher Estella, Deputy Brigade Commander gave the welcome remarks followed by a video presentation on the synopsis of the training.

The course director, 1lt Roberto Salvador presented the 150 trainees who were declared graduates by Ltc Alberto C Desoyo, Commander, 12th Infantry Battalion (CAFGU), 3ID, PA. This was followed by the distribution of certificates and academic and physical proficiency awards by the brigade commander and the guest of honor. (PIA NegOr/JCT)