By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

After Isabela Mayor Joselito Malabor questioned why the Philippine Army withdrew from a recent medical mission, newly-promoted Philippine Army 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, Brigadier General Benedict Arevalo, yesterday reiterated that a memo from superiors was received prohibiting them from taking part.

He further explained, military units are required to be non-partisan as the campaign period is underway.

The military officer said, aside from Malabor, they also received a request from Dr. Irene Montilla, who is challenging Malabor in the mayor’s race, as she also requested the Army to participate in a medical mission, to which they also declined.

Arevalo said there was nothing personal in the cancellations.

The army commander added, they can still conduct medical missions, but requests should come from non-government organizations.

Earlier, upon hearing the reason given by the military unit, Malabor said he was surprised as the said unit has participated in a medical mission the town held last month.

Despite 52IB informing him of the circumstances, the mayor said he could not think of any reason why they would cancel their participation, noting, the army unit has its own medical and dental team to render various services./DGB, WDJ