On January 27, 2024, the turnover ceremony for the Apugan Tú Nabansuyang Project took place in Sitio San Roque, Barangay Magsaysay, Sibagat, Agusan del Sur. The event, organized by Philippine Army Finance Center Producers Integrated Cooperative (PAFCPIC) and represented by Norman F. Torres, Community Development Manager at PAFCPIC Main Office, showcased a collaborative effort from diverse stakeholders. The occasion was graced by esteemed guests, including LTC Michel G Mortejo, Commanding Officer of the 65th Infantry (Stalwart) Battalion, 91ID, PA; Barangay Captain Leoncito Alcoy; TESDA USec. Vidal D. Villanueva III, Deputy Director General of Special Concerns; and other notable figures from the community.

The activities commenced with a warm welcome by the Manobo tribal leader Datu Agong Aljun Cayawan, accompanied by a traditional tribal dance performed by the Manobo children. A symbolic ribbon-cutting marked the official turnover, followed by an invocation and welcome remarks from the Manobo Tribe. The event featured impactful messages from key figures, emphasizing unity, gratitude, and the importance of sustainable development.

The lineup of guest speakers featured LTC Michel G Mortejo, who underscored the importance of unity for attaining peace and prosperity. Barangay Captain Leoncito Alcoy expressed gratitude for the Philippine Army's contribution to peacekeeping, while TESDA USec. Vidal D. Villanueva III, outlined TESDA's dedication to offering training in organic farming and agricultural production. This initiative is supported by TESDA Agusan del Sur, led by Provincial Director Novielita A. Dispo, along with PESO Manager Divina Lagumbay, who also serves as the Provincial Technical Education and Skills Development Committee (PTESDC) Chair and Community Training and Employment Coordinator (CTEC).

Additional speakers, including Aldear Franze H. Milla, and Marjolein R. Dandoy of PAFCPIC, emphasized the cooperative's commitment to community development, sustainable initiatives, and the safeguarding of the Manobo culture. The validation of agreements by partners, represented by Municipal National Commission on Indigenous Peoples’ (NCIP) representative, Nilda Andohoyan, further underscored these objectives.   The community was encouraged to actively engage in the projects to ensure their long-term success.

The Apugan Tú Nabansuyang holds sacred significance for the Manobos as a prayer house where the tribe can uphold their traditions. However, PAFCPIC has recently initiated its efforts and will be identifying additional priority projects for the community.

In a show of generosity, PAFCPIC distributed bags, hygiene kits, and slippers to the children, complemented by the distribution of lunch food packs prepared by the Agusan del Sur School of Arts and Trades (ASSAT) headed by its Acting Vocational School Administrator, Meriam U. Cultura. Despite challenges faced by vehicles in muddy terrain, the Philippine Army's concerted efforts ensured the timely arrival of guests.

Datu Agong Aljun Cayawan, expressed gratitude to the guests and visitors for the successful turnover of the Apugan Tú Nabansuyang, as well as for the pledged support for sustainable, long-term project partnerships offered by different government agencies.

The event concluded with a sense of joy and optimism, reflecting the collective commitment of PAFCPIC, TESDA, NCIP, LGU Agusan del Sur, ASSAT and other collaborators toward community development and the preservation of indigenous heritage.