PTF-ELCAC reaches Balbalan villages; Mayor Malannag: “When government and community move as one, no dream is too distant for Balbalan”

BALBALAN, Kalinga — Essential services, medical assistance, and community consultation were brought directly to two villages in Balbalan through the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) Serbisyo Caravan held this August.

The PTF-ELCAC, headed by Governor James S. Edduba, conducted the Community Consultation and Serbisyo Caravan cum Lumin-awa Poverty Alleviation Program and Medical Mission on August 5 in Barangay Buaya and on August 12 in Barangay Balbalan Proper.

Of the 14 barangays in Balbalan, 13 are considered conflict-affected, with Barangay Poblacion being the only village in the municipality not declared an ELCAC barangay. The other 11 conflict-affected communities had already been visited by the PTF-ELCAC earlier this year and in 2025.

During the Serbisyo Caravan in Buaya and Balbalan Proper, various government agencies, together with the provincial government and the municipal government led by Mayor Almar Malannag, provided basic and essential services to community members.

These included free medical checkups and medicines, dental services, and haircuts. Residents were also given an opportunity to raise their concerns and directly tell government representatives what their communities need.

In his message, Malannag emphasized that the gathering was not simply an opportunity for government to consult with residents but also a commitment to “listen better, to serve faster, and to build together.”

He said the government has heard the people’s concerns regarding peace and security, livelihood opportunities, roads, classrooms, and accessible health services.

For the LGU of Balbalan, Malannag said the municipal government would continue working closely with the provincial and national governments to bring priority projects and services to communities.

He also encouraged residents to continue cooperating with the government, saying that a better future for Balbalan is attainable when communities remain united and work together.

“Where there is peace and stability, progress will continue. Let us be the generation that chooses dialogue over division, service over self, and courage over fear. When government and community move as one, no dream is too distant for Balbalan,” he said.

The Serbisyo Caravan forms part of the government’s continuing efforts to bring essential services closer to communities, particularly those in conflict-affected and geographically isolated areas.