29/10/2026
𝗨𝗡𝗜𝗧𝗘𝗗 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗔 𝗦𝗘𝗖𝗨𝗥𝗘 𝗧𝗔𝗥𝗟𝗔𝗖: 𝗗𝗘𝗙𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗘𝗥𝗦 𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗜𝗙𝗬 𝗦𝗘𝗖𝗨𝗥𝗜𝗧𝗬 𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗡𝗘𝗥𝗦𝗛𝗜𝗣𝗦
Strengthening unity, sharpening vigilance, and building a stronger front against evolving security threats, the 702nd Infantry (DEFENDER) Brigade, Philippine Army, in partnership with the Provincial Government of Tarlac, successfully spearheaded the 6th Iteration of the Security Consultation Forum at the Patrol Hall, Tarlac Police Provincial Office, Tarlac City.
Anchored on the theme “Bridging Gaps, Forging Partnerships,” the forum brought together key government agencies, law enforcement units, private security managers, consultants, and representatives of critical infrastructure facilities across the province. More than a venue for dialogue, the gathering reinforced a shared commitment to proactive security coordination, timely information sharing, and collective preparedness against emerging threats.
The forum was jointly presided over by HON. HENRY A. CRUZ, Chairman of the Committee on Peace and Order and Public Safety, and BGEN RONALD M. BAUTISTA PA, Commander of the 702nd Infantry (DEFENDER) Brigade. Also in attendance were MR. ANTHONY MAGDARAOG, Assistant Regional Director for Counterintelligence, NICA Region 3; PLTCOL JIM FELIPE HELARIO, Chief of Operations, Tarlac Police Provincial Office; and representatives from various partner agencies and security stakeholders.
Recognizing that security is a shared responsibility, the forum underscored the importance of a whole-of-nation approach in confronting traditional and emerging security challenges. Discussions highlighted the need to bridge coordination gaps, strengthen public-private security partnerships, and enhance the protection of critical infrastructure vital to Tarlac's economic growth, public safety, and overall stability.
In his message, HON. HENRY A. CRUZ reaffirmed the Provincial Government's steadfast support for collaborative security initiatives, emphasizing the importance of sustained cooperation in building a safer, more resilient, and progressive Tarlac.
Through the active involvement of the 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion and its partner stakeholders, the 702nd Infantry (DEFENDER) Brigade continues to transform security dialogue into meaningful cooperation, reinforcing a united security front that safeguards communities, protects strategic assets, and strengthens territorial defense readiness.
Because a secure Tarlac is not built by one institution alone. It is forged through unity, strengthened by vigilance, and sustained through partnership.
WE DEFEND TOGETHER!
