Strengthening security and partnerships in Aurora. The 91st Infantry (Sinagtala) Battalion, led by Lt. Col. Michelangelo G. Ramirez, conducted inspections of security checkpoints across Baler and Maria Aurora for SUMVAC 2026, while also paying courtesy visits to local leaders to reinforce collaboration in maintaining peace, safety, and development in the province. (Jason de Asis)
BALER, Aurora — The 91st Infantry (Sinagtala) Battalion of the Philippine Army has intensified its security operations across the Province of Aurora as part of efforts to ensure public safety during the Semana Santa and Summer Vacation (SUMVAC) 2026.
On Maundy Thursday, April 2, 2026, Lt. Col. Michelangelo G. Ramirez, Acting Commanding Officer of the 91st Infantry Battalion, conducted a site visit and spot inspection of established security checkpoints in the municipalities of Baler and Maria Aurora. The inspection aimed to assess the operational readiness of deployed military personnel who are assisting law enforcement authorities in maintaining peace and order during the peak travel season.
During the visit, Ramirez personally checked the security personnel stationed at checkpoints in Barangay San Joaquin and Barangay 1 in Maria Aurora, as well as at the checkpoint in Compac, Barangay Suklayin in Baler. The soldiers are working in close coordination with the Aurora Police Provincial Office (PPO) to ensure the safety of motorists, residents, and tourists traveling across the province.
The deployment of troops forms part of the Philippine Army’s continuing support to local authorities in providing a secure environment as thousands of travelers visit Aurora for the Holy Week and summer vacation.
Meanwhile, the 91st Infantry Battalion also strengthened its partnership with local government units through a series of courtesy calls conducted on March 30, 2026.
Lt. Col. Ramirez, together with Capt. Zamzamyn K. Dimasidsing, Acting Civil Military Operations Officer, visited local chief executives in Aurora to reinforce cooperation in peace, security, and community development initiatives.
The delegation first paid a courtesy visit to Maria Aurora Mayor Ariel S. Bitong at the Municipal Mayor’s Office in Barangay Dos at around 8:50 a.m. Discussions focused on sustaining peace and order and strengthening collaborative programs between the military and the local government.
Later that afternoon at about 2:00 p.m., the officials also visited San Luis Mayor Ariel A. De Jesus at the Municipal Mayor’s Office, likewise located in Barangay Dos. The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of the 91st Infantry Battalion to continue working closely with local leaders in maintaining security and supporting development programs in their respective communities.
In a separate activity, residents, local officials, and members of the security sector gathered on March 29, 2026 for a Unity Walk and Indignation Rally held in Barangay Ibona, Dingalan, Aurora. The event aimed to denounce the influence of the CPP-NPA-NDF and promote peace and stability in the province.
During the activity, Lt. Col. Ramirez emphasized the importance of the active participation of communities, local government units, and security forces in safeguarding peace and development.
He underscored that strong collaboration among stakeholders plays a vital role in rejecting attempts of communist terrorist groups to regain influence in the area and in ensuring long-term peace and progress for the people of Aurora.
The series of activities highlights the continuing efforts of the 91st Infantry Battalion to strengthen security, build partnerships with local leaders, and promote unity among communities in support of peace and development in the province. (Jason de Asis)