In an era marked by growing regional tensions and increasing uncertainty in the Asia-Pacific, the 125th Forward Company of the Philippine Army led by Capt. Jerome Axalan, in close coordication with the us, Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) – Occidental Mindoro Field Office, has taken a proactive stance to fortify the country’s western frontier, not only through defense readiness but also by empowering communities along the West Philippine Sea coastline.
The recent meeting of efforts between the 125th Forward Company and CDA Provincial Office underscores a shared vision: the creation of peaceful, resilient, and empowered coastal communities, particularly among the fisherfolk of Mindoro Island. This initiative recognizes that true security extends beyond military presence, it is rooted in the strength of the people, their livelihoods, and their collective capacity to adapt and thrive amid uncertainty.
As global attention sharpens around the potential conflict between Taiwan and China, Mindoro stands as a strategic and vulnerable point, both geographically and geopolitically. Any escalation in the Taiwan Strait is expected to have radiating effects—not just economically through disrupted maritime trade routes and fishing grounds, but also in terms of sovereignty and local peace stability. In response, the formation and strengthening of fisherfolk cooperatives have become a cornerstone of the multi-sectoral approach toward community resilience.
These cooperatives serve as both economic lifelines and community anchors. They provide sustainable livelihood alternatives, fair access to marine resources, and collective bargaining power for small-scale fishers. More importantly, they become platforms for community education, disaster preparedness, and peace advocacy. Through cooperative structures, fisherfolk are not only empowered to secure their economic well-being but are also mobilized as stakeholders in maintaining maritime awareness and preserving national territory.
The Philippine Army, through the 125th Forward Company, has shown unwavering commitment in supporting these grassroots initiatives. By integrating community engagement into its civil-military operations, the unit plays a vital role in bridging the gap between national defense and local development. Joint activities, such as cooperative formation orientations, livelihood seminars, and peacebuilding dialogues, have begun to take root in coastal barangays across Occidental Mindoro.
In the face of regional tensions and the shadow of potential conflict, the people of Mindoro—led by their cooperatives, supported by their soldiers—are forging a path that blends economic vitality, national security, and a deep-rooted commitment to lasting peace. The 125th Forward Company stands ready, not only as a shield but as a partner in building the future of a stronger, self-reliant coastal Philippines.
