Atmorok is a mountainous sitio in Malungon, Sarangani.
On 17 May 2011 Bishop Dinualdo Gutierrez and six other persons were brought to Atmorok by two military helicopters provided by the 10th Infantry Division, PA, based in Mawab, CompostellaValley.
Flight was smooth and pleasant under a blue sky splattered with feather – like clouds.
After 30 minutes we landed at Atmorok to a warm welcome by B’laans colorfully attired in their traditional costumes.
Mass and confirmation we celebrated in B’laan and Cebuano.
Fr. Joy Peliño, DXCP Acting Director and Passionist Fathers Edwin Flor, Rey Carvyn Ondap and Roel Belmis helped the Bishop administer confirmation to 147 adults and children. Soon to be ordained deacons Andrew Gumboc, CP and Alexander Arellano, CP assisted the Bishop.
One of the helicopters had engine trouble. Since helicopters fly in twos, at least, we had to return to Koronadal City by land.
I rode in the Passionist Fathers’ Samurai going down to Benigno Aquino. From Atmorok our ride was uphill through muddy and slippery areas. A turbulent one! Dangerous, too. Having reached the top we started going down. Still muddy and slippery but no longer dangerous.
Lt. Col. Espulgar, Executive Officer, 1002nd Bde, 101D, met us at Benigno Aquino with two vehicles (trouper). We waited for some minutes for my companions who walked all the way from Atmorok (2-3 kms.).
From Benigno Aquino the trip was generally smooth. At Tampakan Poblacion, Fr. Joseph Benitez, Territorial Episcopal Vicar for South Cotabato, offered lunch to the hungry soldiers. It was around 2:40p.m.
Thank you, Lord, and all the angels and saints. We thank also the B’laan Community at Atmorok – flourishing in faith, education (Grade 1-VI), health and food production. Special thanks to the pilots, advanced party and “rescue” team.
