Senior Colonel Nguyễn Văn Hoạt, Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff of the provincial Military Command, noted: “After more than two months operating under the two-tier model, despite many difficulties, DACs have played a core role, demonstrating unity, strict discipline, and solidly fulfilling military and defense tasks. All officers and soldiers remain committed, fully aware of their responsibilities and assigned duties.”

A key focus has been the consolidation of commune-level military commands and militia forces in line with the new administrative structure. Following consultations with local authorities, all 45 commune and ward military party cells have been established. In addition, 102 DAC officers have been dispatched to grassroots levels to directly assist commune commands in developing military-defense plans and civil defense readiness, as well as in coordinating rescue and relief operations. This has strengthened civil defense capacities and enhanced coordination between militia forces, border guards, and police in maintaining political security and social order.

In practice, DACs have gone beyond defense planning, standing alongside citizens in urgent situations, most notably during prolonged floods. In Xa Dung commune, among the hardest-hit areas in early August, DAC 3 - Na Son played a pivotal role in evacuating residents from high-risk zones, building temporary shelters, and safeguarding lives and property, with priority given to the elderly and children. Despite difficult terrain and limited manpower, most households in danger zones such as Từ Xa B hamlet (16 out of 21 households at risk of landslides) and Háng Sông Trên Hhamlet (17 households nearly 20km from the commune center) were safely supported. The provincial Military Command also deployed field tents and stationed some 600 officers and soldiers at critical points.

In Pú Nhung commune, DAC 4 - Mường Ang worked with local authorities to urgently relocate seven households from Hang Chua and Bon B Hamlets. Lieutenant Colonel Trần Trung Kiên, Commander of DAC 4, personally directed the dismantling, transport, and reconstruction of homes. “With major cracks and serious landslide risks, the relocation had to be carried out swiftly and thoroughly. This was not only an urgent task but also a responsibility of the armed forces to the people,” he emphasized.

Meanwhile, border guard forces quickly reorganized their units and stepped up patrols along border markers and crossings, maintaining both internal and external security. At the same time, they actively contributed to digital governance from the grassroots level.

At the Na Cô Sa Border Post, the unit’s Youth Union formed a volunteer team that partnered with the local Youth Union and other forces to help residents access online public services. Volunteers guided people through administrative procedures, assisted with VNeID installation, helped them navigate the national e-service portal, and submit electronic applications. The unit also ran a basic digital skills class for 25 students from Na Cô Sa Secondary Boarding School, introducing them to computers and office software.

These initiatives have not only made online public services more accessible but also created opportunities for youth to sharpen IT skills, highlighting the volunteer spirit of border guard youth in building and defending the nation’s frontiers.

From strategic planning, training, and drills to disaster response and digital governance, the DACs of Điện Biên have proven their central role within the two-tier local government framework. Their proactive engagement has reinforced overall strength, bolstered defense and border security, and laid a vital foundation for local stability and sustainable development.