FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – A Change of Command Ceremony led by the Army Commanding General, Lt. Gen. Macairog S. Alberto was held at Headquarters, 9th Infantry “Spear” Division, Camp Elias Angeles, San Jose, Pili, Camarines Sur on Wednesday, December 19, 2018 with Maj. Gen. Fernando T. Trinidad as the new commander replacing Maj. Gen. Jesus A. Manangquil who already reached his mandatory retirement.
Lt. Gen. Alberto officiated the ceremony which was highlighted by the traditional Hand-over of Command Symbol from the predecessor to the successor.
The 9ID serves as vanguard of the AFP in the conduct of internal peace and security operations in Bicol Region. For years its capability has been tested amidst various challenges brought about by both internal armed conflict and natural disasters.
Since birth of the local insurgency, Bicol region has known to be a hot bed and one of the most affected areas by NPAs violent activities. Aside from it, it is also prone to natural disasters particularly typhoon as it is located in the eastern seaboard of the country. The region is also home to three active volcanoes namely Bulusan in Sorsogon, Iriga in Camarines Sur and Mayon in Albay.
In his message, Lt. Gen. Alberto praised the Spear Troopers for their unrelenting services and dedication under the leadership of Maj. Gen. Manangquil that provided an improved façade to the region in terms of security and economic progress. He also expressed his high hopes that under the leadership of Maj. Gen. Trinidad, 9ID will continue to maintain its good performance in maintaining peace and order in the region as well as enabler to support local government units and the communities during natural disasters and calamities.
Maj. Gen. Trinidad is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Hinirang” Class of 1987. He was the AFP Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, J2 prior to his post. He has a vast experience in the area having served as Battalion Commander of the 31st Infantry “Spartan” Battalion, based in Sipocot, Camarines Sur and as Brigade Commander of the 903rd Infantry “Patriot” Brigade in Sorsogon.
The Philippine Army, as the main force provider of the AFP continuously support its ground forces of the necessary organizational and logistical requirements in order to be prepared for current and future operational challenges. Part of it is sustained leadership training and proper positioning of people which has better capacity to lead and manage the unit towards mission accomplishment. This is in line with the Army’s transformation journey to be a world-class Army that is a source of national pride by 2028.#