FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – The Philippine Army (PA) welcomes an undersecretary of the Department of Agriculture (DA) and a Muslim advocate as a new member of the Multi-Sector Advisory Board (MSAB) here today, September 3, 2020.
Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Cirilito E. Sobejana administered the oath-taking of Engr. Zamzamin Ampatuan, DA Undersecretary for Regulations and Build Build Build Agri.
Ampatuan said he intends to serve in PA MSAB's Research and Education Committee. He hopes that his experiences as a follower of Islam contribute to the endeavors of the board’s support towards the Army’s mission especially in advocating peace.
In his speech, Ampatuan recalled that as a 10-year-old boy, he saw how the Army pursued peace in their region by partnering with the civil society and different agencies. Regarding soldiers as among his role models, Ampatuan volunteered and headed various organizations including the Muslim Student Council of Notre Dame University and served as the Undersecretary and Executive Director of the Office of Muslim Affairs. “I would like to express to you my commitment; I will always be a willing partner of the Philippine Army,” he said.
“The Philippine Army’s transformation is a bid shared with governance and policy experts, the people we need in attaining our breakthrough goals. They are the people we rely on for criticisms and opinions in wide-ranging matters affecting the Army,” said Sobejana.
“As people of one nation, bridging the gap is the key to realize our vision. In the pursuit of lasting peace and sustainable development, know that we are neither above nor below you, but we are always beside you in this journey,” he added.