<h4>Chapter 168 Announcement to the Civilians</h4>


    September 26th, 2023.


    The civilians living in the ckwatch Oriental Military Camp continued their life as usual as if there was no zombie apocalypse wreaking havoc outside the fortified walls. They were working on their designated task, shopping, having fun with theirrades or families, or simply taking a moment to rx.


    People queued at food distribution points, chatting amiably with each other. The smell of freshly cooked meals filled the airfortably. Small markets had been set up by the civilians, selling handmade goods and items they had salvaged. It was a small but thriving economy, a testament to human resilience and adaptability.


    In one corner of the camp, a group of volunteers organized educational activities for the children, ensuring that their schooling continued despite the apocalypse. Nearby, a medical tent was set up, with doctors and nurses tirelessly attending to the needs of the camp''s inhabitants, treating everything frommon colds to injuries sustained in zombie encounters.


    Evenings in the camp were marked bymunal activities. Music could be heard from one of the tents, where a group of musicians yed instruments. Others gathered around screens to watch movies, a luxury made possible by the camp''s limited power supply.


    However, that normal life was interrupted by the sound of the P. A system was built throughout the camp.


    "Attention, citizens of the ckwatch Oriental Military Camp. There will be an announcement tomorrow morning, on the 27th of September, at eight o''clock, in the Central Makati University. Only send one representative if you are in groups, families, or teams. This is to minimize disruptions and maintain order during the announcement. We urge everyone to adhere to this directive for the smooth conduct of the meeting. Thank you."


    The announcement caused a stir among the camp''s inhabitants. Spections ran rampant, with people guessing the nature of the announcement. Some hoped it was just a speech made by the leader of the camp ensuring their safety, while others feared it could be about stricter measures due to a possible threat like the wave that happened six days ago.


    ***


    September 27th, 2023. At Central Makati University, the representatives of each group, family, and team gathered as instructed. Therge auditorium of the university, repurposed for such gatherings, was filled with a palpable sense of expectation.


    Lisa was one of the attendees. Even though she knew what this announcement was about, she wanted to hear it along with the civilians. The murmurs in the crowd grew quieter as the camp leader, Richard Gonzales, stepped up to the podium. He looked over the crowd, his expression serious yetposed.


    "Good morning,dies and gentlemen, citizens of the ckwatch Oriental Military Camp. I know most of you are wondering why there was a sudden call for this meeting. I''m here to address some important updates and changes that are about to take ce in our camp," Richard began. The audience listened intently, hanging on to every word.


    "Firstly, I want tomend all of you for your resilience and cooperation in these challenging times. Your strength and unity have been the backbone of our survival," he continued. This preamble was met with nods and murmurs of agreement from the crowd.


    "However, recent developments outside our walls necessitate a change in our approach. Our scouts have reported an increase in zombie activity in the surrounding areas. Another thing is that our food resources are dwindling to the point we won''t be able to survive for another month. Therefore, I have ordered a reconnaissance mission to look for a potential camp that is sustainable where we can grow crops, and raise livestock."


    The news about dwindling food resources sent a wave of concern through the audience. People exchanged worried nces, understanding the gravity of the situation. Richard continued, trying to maintain a reassuring tone.


    "Fortunately, our reconnaissance paid off. We have found that there is a ce that meets all the criteria for long-term survival. Those who are living in the Philippines would probably know about this ce once I mention the name."


    The locals expectantly waited for Richard to reveal the location. While foreigners looked around, sensing the anticipation in the air. "The location is in the north called New rk City in Capas, Tac. It has ample space, existing infrastructure, and is surrounded by green areas conducive for agriculture," Richard announced.


    The crowd absorbed this information, some nodding in recognition of the name.


    "However, there is another thing I''d like to tell you. The ce is already upied by a survivor, and its leader is the former Vice President of the Philippines. Maria Santos."


    This additional information caused a stir among the crowd. The mention of a former high-ranking official still alive and leading a group of survivors added a new dimension to the situation. Richard quickly addressed the murmurs that had started to spread.


    "Let me assure you, we have been in contact with Maria Santos and her group. They are also survivors, like us, and have established a functioningmunity at New rk City. Our n is to join forces with them,bining our resources and expertise for the benefit of both groups," he exined.


    "This partnership offers us not only a new location for our camp but also the opportunity to be part of arger, more diversemunity. Together, we can build a stronger and more sustainable settlement," he said.


    "But will it be saferpared to that ce?" One of the civilians asked. "Like, this base is fortified, it''s equipped with a state-of-the-art anti-air missile defense system and a lot of military tanks and vehicles."


    "Those systems would be also constructed for the New rk City," Richard responded confidently. "We have ns to transport essential military hardware and fortify the new location. Our top priority is the safety and security of all residents. New rk City offers a strategic location that, once fortified, will provide us with a strong defense against any external threats."


    "When will we move out?" Another civilian asked.


    "Good question, the fastest would be next week. You will be given a batch number and your move will be scheduled ordingly," Richard answered.


    He further exined that the first few batches would include people who would help set up essential services and infrastructure at the new location. "We need engineers, medical staff, security personnel, and those with agricultural skills to be among the first to move. They willy the groundwork for others to follow."


    Richard also addressed the concerns about leaving behind the current camp. "We are not abandoning this ce immediately. We are making this an outpost as a backup and to maintain a strategic position in the region. That would be all, if you have further questions, please ask an officer. Thank you for your time and may god bless us all."


    Upon concluding his announcement, Richard stepped away from the podium and left.


    After the announcement, the civilians received batch numbers, indicating their turn to move to New rk City. The distribution of these numbers was systematic, with families and individuals checking to see when they would depart. Some were relieved to be moving soon, while others, assigned toter batches, prepared for a longer wait at the ckwatch Oriental Military Camp.


    Those in the first batch were required to pack their things. They are survivors who have essential skills in agriculture, engineering, medical care, and security, crucial for establishing the foundations of the new settlement. They packed efficiently, focusing on personal practical items like tools, seeds, medical equipment, and personal protective gear.


    In the midst of the packing, the camp''s organization and discipline were evident. The ckwatch Oriental Military Camp had established a robust system over time, and this was reflected in the orderly manner in which the first batch prepared to move. Lists of essential items were distributed, and collection points were set up formunal resources like food supplies and medical kits.


    And as the day of the relocation neared, there was a noticeable increase in activity within the camp. Everyone, regardless of their batch number, was involved in some way. The first batch''s departure had set a precedent, and now the remaining inhabitants were keen to keep the momentum going.


    On the day of the relocation, the first batch was transported to the area where CH-47 Chinooks, UH-60 ck Hawks, and other military transport vehicles were waiting. The transportation was organized and well-coordinated, with military personnel directing the civilians. Each person knew exactly where to go, thanks to the briefings and rehearsals conducted in the days leading up to the move.


    The loading of the transport vehicles was also systematic. Personal belongings were stowed securely, whilergermunity supplies were loaded onto separate vehicles designated for equipment and resources. The soldiers ensured that everyone was safely aboard, conducting final checks before departure.


    At the Ay North Exchange Tower 1. Richard, Graves, Mark, and Sara were inside a meeting room. On the phone was the leader of the New rk City Camp, Maria Santos.


    "Our special forces has already nted the speakers as for your instructions."


    "That''ss a huge help, thank you, ma''am Santos," Richard said. "Now, let''s not mess this up or we will lose an airport that is already there waiting to be picked."