LUNA, Apayao – The 5th Infantry Division (ID) of the Philippine Army (PA) conducted a Book Launching of Marag Valley Chronicles: Paradise Lost, Paradise Regained on January 22, 2025, at Marag Elementary School in Luna, Apayao.
The 5th ID played an important role in liberating Marag Valley from the clutches of the New People’s Army (NPA) and spearheaded its rehabilitation efforts, paving the way for the valley’s transformation into a symbol of peace and resilience.
The book launching was led by the Provincial Governor Hon. Elias C. Bulut Jr. and 5th ID PA Commander, Major General Gulliver L. Señires, along with personnel of the provincial government and the PA.
Written by a group of dedicated writers and researchers, the book documents stories and written accounts about Marag Valley and its-awe inspiring transformation. It features 11 essays that delve in to the complexities of the insurgency in Marag Valley. The essays discuss the establishment of the guerilla base and the creation of the New People’s Army (NPA) First National Battalion, among others.
The book likewise includes testimonies from former rebels and victims of the NPA during their occupation in the valley. Additionally, it addresses the progress Marag Valley has achieved, especially in eco-tourism and sustainable livelihoods.
The book will be circulated and made available to the public once more copies are published. For now, only a limited number of copies have been produced, and the 5th ID holds the initial set. By Michelle Acantilado