Related posts in Mindanao Examiner’s official website and blog entitled “Philippine Army Winning the Hearts and Minds in Mindanao.” Also, in PIA Website (by Breezy Jimenez): "Makamandag battalion maintains peace, order stance."
The camp exhibits showcased the brigade’s role, its capabilities, and accomplishments in pictures. The combat units under the brigade, the Philippine National Police, and the US military in the area joined the exhibits. Also, commercial outlets, and other institutions together with the Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte and the City Government of Iligan erected their stalls to promote tourism and their local products. At that time, the visitors freely interacted with the soldiers, took pictures, and even handled the available military hardware. The various weapons on display and the armored vehicles were the all-time crowd drawers.
Group tours, particularly for visiting schools and other entities, were guided by soldiers and local volunteer Tourism Students on practicum. Consistent with the brigade’s Muslim-inspired moniker as “Sultan,” the camp grounds were elaborately decorated with colorful Maranao traditional flags such as the “sambulayan” and “pasandalan.” Martial march music and the sound of the “kulintang” accented the festive spirit. The last day even featured the world-acclaimed Kalimulan Dance Troupe of the Mindanao State University (MSU-IIT) performing cultural dances.
The camp exhibit—hailed to be the first time ever, in the area—attracted 4,270 curious visitors on record coming from the various sectors even as far as beyond the brigade area of responsibility. Considering the turnout of guests, mostly students, similar exhibits will be held in more publicly accessible places as in schools.
