Around 2,000 books and textbooks were turned over for a school in Maguindanao del Sur on November 2, 2026, through a joint effort by the Philippine Army's 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division and Sacred Heart School – Ateneo de Cebu. The turnover ceremony took place at Makatao Hall, Camp Siongco, Maguindanao del Norte.
The donated learning materials are destined for Hadji Ali Baganian Memorial School in Barangay Nest Tambunan, Talayan, Maguindanao del Sur. According to the 6th Infantry Division's Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO), Sacred Heart School – Ateneo de Cebu was represented at the handover by Mr. Gabriel Joseph Catolico, while Mr. Albert Hadjihil, School President of the recipient institution, was also named in the release as part of the turnover.
Ceremony Presided Over by Brig. Gen. Catu
The DPAO reported that Brig. Gen. Edgar L. Catu, commander of both the 6th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Central, led the handover proceedings. Brig. Gen. Catu extended his gratitude to Ateneo de Cebu for the contribution and urged other individuals and organisations to donate books, learning materials, or conduct educational activities for underserved schools and students from underprivileged families.
Command Opens Door to More Contributions
In a statement issued through the DPAO on November 2, 2026, the Command said it is prepared to facilitate similar donations from other partners. "We encourage other stakeholders to help or donate educational materials which we are more than willing to facilitate so that more learners can access educational opportunities and build a better future. Regardless of our religious backgrounds, we share a common responsibility to support education and build peace. The Command remains a willing partner and conduit for initiatives that bring communities together," the statement read.
Interfaith Cooperation Highlighted
The 6th Infantry Division DPAO described the initiative as a reflection of the Command's commitment to education, interfaith cooperation, and peace-building across Central and South Central Mindanao. The Command characterised the book donation as an example of how cross-cultural and cross-religious collaboration can help strengthen community bonds.
Source: 6th Infantry Division, Philippine Army – Division Public Affairs Office