From war zone to bustling habitation: Sitio Zapanta’s journey to peace, progress
By Nora L. Molde
BUTUAN CITY – Once a conflict-ridden place, Sitio Zapanta Valley in Barangay Bangayan, Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte has risen from the shadows of unrest to become a model of resilience, unity, and development.
With the successful dismantling of the communist terrorist group (CTG) and the neutralization of Guerrilla Front 16 in 2023, the sitio has embraced a new era of peace, paving the way for long-overdue progress and community empowerment.
A cornerstone of Sitio Zapanta’s transformation is the investment in education which served as a crucial step toward breaking the cycle of poverty and conflict when the community recently celebrated the turnover of a mini gymnasium at Zapanta Elementary School.
Funded by the provincial government of Agusan del Norte and constructed by the 544th Engineer Battalion, 52nd Engineer Brigade, Philippine Army, the facility provided the students with a safe space for physical education and community activities.
Agusan del Norte Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante underscored the significance of community collaboration in these transformative efforts.
“We cannot do this alone. It takes the entire community – the parents, teachers, and our IP leaders – to ensure a brighter future for our children,” she said, expressing gratitude to the Philippine Army, the Department of Education, and local government officials for their unwavering commitment.
She also acknowledged the 52nd Engineer Brigade, led by BGen. Jose Eduardo F. Liboon, and its 544th Engineer Construction Battalion, commanded by Ltc. Ricky N. Baguio, for their dedication in making this project a reality.
“This is more than just a school facility, it is a symbol of hope, a space for learning, and a center for community development. Through collaborative governance, we can bring sustainable progress to rural communities,” Amante added.
During the turnover ceremony, officials also led the groundbreaking of another building with four classrooms, ensuring that more students will have access to quality education in the place.
To recall, just in time for this school year’s Brigada Eskwela kick-off, the government also inaugurated a one-storey, five-classroom school building at Zapanta Valley National High School.
Brigadier General Arsenio D.C. Sadural, commander of the 901st Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army, credited this transformation to strong collaboration among local stakeholders, government agencies, and security forces, including the 29th Infantry Battalion and other operational units.
“Our forces played a key role in ensuring the safety of the community, but our mission goes beyond combat. We are committed to helping rebuild and uplift communities that were once caught in the crossfire of insurgency,” Sadural emphasized.
For the indigenous peoples (IP) of Sitio Zapanta, this new found stability is life-changing. Captain Jonel G. Castillo, Civil-Military Operations officer of the 901st Brigade, 91st Infantry Division, shared how grateful the IP community is for the support they are now receiving.
Datu Lando Asay, a respected IP leader, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the significance of these developments.
“For years, we lived in fear and uncertainty. Today, we are empowered to build a better future. These projects are not just infrastructure; they are symbols of hope and progress for our people,” Asay said.
With each new school, development project, and livelihood initiative, Sitio Zapanta is rewriting its story, from a battleground to a hub of progress and opportunity.
From conflict to cooperation, Sitio Zapanta’s transformation is a powerful reminder that with peace comes progress, and with collective effort, a brighter future is within reach. (NCLM, PIA-Agusan del Norte)
