FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – The Philippine Army installed a new commander to the 54th Engineer Brigade based in Camp Cabatangan, Zamboanga City on Thursday, November 20, 2018.
Col. Anthony T. Cacayuran assumed the post replacing Brig. Gen. Arnold F. Fernandez who is projected to hold another sensitive position at the higher headquarters. The traditional Change of Command ceremony was presided by the Army Commanding General, Lt. Gen. Macairog S. Alberto who also served as the Guest of Honor and Speaker.
Brig. Gen. Fernandez, in his remarks expressed his profound appreciation to the Command for giving him the opportunity to lead the finest, hardworking and dedicated soldiers of 54th Engineer Brigade. He also extended his gratitude to the many individuals and stakeholders who helped and contributed to the accomplishment of the unit mission during his stint.
On the other hand, Col. Cacayuran said that he will continue what his predecessor had started and urged everyone in the unit to perform their sworn duty to the best of their collective abilities with prompt actions for nation building and to make a difference in the lives of the people in the community.
Col. Cacayuran is a civil engineer by profession and was commissioned through the Officer Candidate Program. He holds a Master’s Degree in Public Management Major in Development and Security and also specialized in intelligence. Prior to his post, he was the Chief of the Army Real Estate Office at Fort Bonifacio.
From April 2012 until November 2017, he held various positions with the 52nd Engineer Brigade until he was transferred and designated as Deputy Commander of 51st Engineer Brigade. His higher leadership stint includes, Commanding Officer of the 534th Engineer Combat Battalion, and as Joint Task Group Commander of Task Group Tambayayong under Eastern Mindanao Command in 2013.
Over the years, the 54th Engineer Brigade since its activation has been deployed in many areas of the country and instrumental in providing the necessary support in line with the AFP’s internal security operations. They are often employed in support of nation building, civil work programs and disaster relief operations.
The unit also took some transformation and developed its capability to be able to provide combat support in terms of mobility, counter-mobility and survivability during the recent Marawi Crisis. Moreover, they played a vital role in administering the affected communities that were displaced due to the conflict in terms of construction of shelters and other essential basic services.
Lt. Gen. Alberto in his message said that, “the Philippine Army, as part of its commitment shall continue to strengthen its organization and build its capability to be responsive and adept to the changing operational environment and to be more of service to the Filipino people.” ###