The Army’s 53rd Infantry Battalion (53IB) has launched a welfare program for the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) in Zamboanga del Sur to ensure the members’ welfare as they serve in the frontlines of national defense, a military official said Sunday.

Dubbed the “Better Life Program for CAA,” the program was launched Saturday in Bayog, Zamboanga del Sur, as the program’s pilot area, 53IB commander Lt. Col. Rolando Vargas Jr. said.

CAA stands for CAFGU Active Auxiliary, the territorial security force deployed in remote areas alongside military units.

“The program is not just about giving aid, it’s about giving hope, dignity and recognition to those who have dedicated their lives to supporting peace and security in our communities,” Vargas said in a statement.

A company-sized CAA unit with 100 members, along with their families, was provided with social and health services at the program launch.

Initial assistance given to the CAA during the distribution at the headquarters of the 53IB’s Bravo Company in Barangay Dipili included 100 sacks of rice of 25 kilos each, 100 hygiene kits, 100 food packs, and 100 packed lunches.

The health services provided were medical consultations with vital signs monitoring, medicines, human immunodeficiency virus tests and haircuts.

Vargas said the successful launch of the program marked a significant milestone in the continuous collaboration between the military and local government in delivering essential services to the grassroots communities.

Meanwhile, the Army’s 1st Infantry Division has designated Lt. Col. Bernardo Quiamjot Jr. as the new chief of the 1st Division CAFGU Active Auxiliary Affairs Office (1DCAO) that oversees the training and deployment of militiamen in Zamboanga Peninsula.

Quiamjot assumed leadership of 1DCAO on Sept. 4, replacing Col. Edgar Allan Villanueva, who was assigned to a higher post. (PNA)