Camp Bautista, Jolo, Sulu - September 27, 2023
Maj. Gen. Steve D. Crespillo, Commander of Western Mindanao Command, officiated the
Deactivation of Joint Task Force Sulu and Basilan and Activation Ceremony of Joint Task Force Orion at Camp Bautista, Barangay Busbus, Jolo, Sulu on September 25, 2023.
The Meritorious Achievement Medal were both conferred to Maj. Gen. Ignatius N. Patrimonio and Brig. Gen. Alvin Luzon, outgoing Commanders of JTF Sulu and Basilan for the successful campaign in attaining peace and stability in Southern Mindanao. Moreso, the event was highlighted by the furling of unit colors of JTF Sulu and JTF Basilan, unfurling of unit colors of JTF Orion, and and ceremonial donning of patch to JTF Orion officers.
In his assumption speech as newly-installed Commander of JTF Orion, Maj. Gen. Patrimonio said, "We have gained a remarkable progress in Sulu and Basilan over the year through the unwavering dedication and hardwork of our troops, the local leaders, and the community. We have significantly weakened terrorism in these areas. The new Task Force will draw upon a valuable lesson to learn with our experiences in Sulu and Basilan and apply them to a broader context. This mark a new chapter in our journey, I am confident that together we will rise and meet the challenges."
Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Crespillo said, "We intend to activate the JTF Orion - a specialized and highly adaptive force to address the internal security operations and territorial defense operations challenges in the region. It is a testament to the military's ability to adapt and innovate."
"It is a good time to give my gratitude and appreciation to the sacrifices and hardship of our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and civilian human resource which have brought the improved peace in Sulu and Basilan. Let us continue to realize our aspirations in pursuit to inclusive peace and stability in Sulu and Basilan," Maj. Gen. Crespillo concluded.
The activity was graced by Brig. Gen. Taharuddin P. Ampatuan, Deputy Commander of JTF Orion; Brig. Gen. Giovanni T. Franza, Commander 1102nd Bde; Brig. Gen. Christopher C. Tampus, Commander 1103rd Bde; and WesMinCom and JTF Orion staff.
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