Around 3,000 scholars of the provincial government of Pampanga gathered at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center on September 30 for an information and education campaign (IEC) on national security and the West Philippine Sea (WPS), led by the Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
The activity was organized by NOLCOM, through the 1st Civil Relations Group (1CRG), in partnership with the provincial government headed by Governor Lilia G. Pineda. It coincided with the distribution of educational financial assistance to the scholars.
Colonel Enrique G. Rafael, group commander of the 1CRG, said the initiative aims to strengthen young people’s awareness of issues tied to national security, including deceptive recruitment by armed groups and the importance of maritime sovereignty.
“As Iskolar ng Bayan, it is fitting that our students are informed about the challenges we face, from internal threats to issues in the West Philippine Sea. We want them empowered to stand firm and contribute to safeguarding peace and sovereignty,” he said.
NOLCOM officials also thanked the provincial government for supporting the effort to engage young people on national issues. “Our partnerships exemplify our collective approach in the attainment of inclusive and sustainable peace,” Rafael added.
Organizers noted that this activity is part of a series of IEC campaigns across NOLCOM’s operational area to help students and communities better understand their role in promoting national security, peace, and resilience.
