SP approves MOA with 4th ID PA

THE 20th City Council, in its regular session presided by Vice Mayor Jocelyn B. Rodriguez, enacted an ordinance authorizing City Mayor Rolando A. Uy to enter into and sign the amended Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) by and between the City Government of Cagayan de Oro and the 4th Infantry Division (Diamond) Division, Philippine Army, covering the establishment of the Task Force ORO (TFO) in the city pursuant to Ordinance No. 14599-2023.

The authority of the City Mayor is also in consonance with Section 455 (1) (vi) of the Local Government Code which provides for the function and power to “call upon the appropriate law enforcement agencies to suppress disorder, riot, lawless violence, rebellion or sedition, or to apprehend violators of the law when public interest so requires and the city police forces are inadequate to cope with the situation or the violators.”

Under the agreement, the city shall issue executive instruments or local legislations, whenever necessary, for the effective implementation of the functions and mandated tasks of the TFO in allowing the 4th ID (Diamond)-Phil. Army to utilize its personnel, manpower, equipment, and facilities, subject to the proper coordination and protocol with the City Mayor and other authorized city officials.

Additionally, it will be responsible for providing 4ID (Diamond)-Phil with the required technical support and take all necessary actions to meet its operational needs in accomplishing and carrying out its operations, subject to the guidelines set by law.

For its part, the 4th ID (Diamond)-Phil. Army shall conduct operations in deterring lawlessness, public disorder, and any form of terrorism; direct and supervise the military and armed support it provided to the police in the enforcement of the laws and ordinances, in maintaining the peace and order, tranquility, and security; perform counter-terrorism duties in the city subject to the guidelines as the City Mayor may direct in accordance to the existing laws and regulations, among others.

The legislation was reviewed and endorsed by the City Council Committee on Laws and Rules chaired by Councilor Edgar S. Cabanlas. (Photos by JRGalano & Bombo Radyo)