4ID has new Commander

06 feb 19 4id cover

FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila- The 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division has a new commander in the person of Brig. Gen. Franco Nemecio M. Gacal who succeeded Maj. Gen. Ronald C. Villanueva in a Change of Command Ceremony presided by the Commanding General Philippine Army, Lt. Gen. Macairog S. Alberto at Camp Edilberto T. Evangelista, Patag Cagayan de Oro, City on Tuesday, February 05, 2019.  

 

The 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division since its activation has been at the forefront of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ internal security operation in addressing security threats in Eastern Mindanao, CARAGA and portion of Region 10 which aims to attain a physically and psychologically secured environment conducive to socio-economic development.  For the past three years, the Division has neutralized 1,101 Communist NPA Terrorist (CNTs), seized or captured 966 firearms, cleared 264 barangays from CNT’s affectation and significantly, it has facilitated the declaration of province of Bukidnon as Conflict Manageable and Ready for Further Development.

The ceremony was highlighted by the traditional turnover of command and symbol from the Commander, Maj. Gen. Villanueva who is set to vow-out from the military service to the incoming, Brig. Gen. Gacal.   

Brig. Gen. Gacal is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Maringal” Class of 1988. A Special Forces and well-rounded military officer with expertise in resource management and managerial acumen. He is a graduate of Master in Strategic Studies, Peace and Security Stabilization Course, International Fellows Academic Preparatory Course and Senior Service College and Joint Professional Military Education all from United States Army War College in Pennsylvania, USA. 

Prior to his new post, he served as the Commander of 402nd Infantry “Stinger” Brigade since  2016 which makes him best-fitted to stir the helms of the Division for being accustomed to the sociological and security situation in the area and had already established “teamwork” for peace and development with local governments units in the region.

In his assumption speech Brig. Gen. Gacal with humility expressed his sincerest gratitude to the Chief of Staff, AFP and the Commanding General, PA, Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr., Lt. Gen. Macairog S. Alberto, for bestowing him the trust and confidence to lead the noble warriors of 4ID. He also pledge to continue building the 4ID into a formidable, deterrent and fighting force in order to contribute for national development with culture of peace and unity.

Lt. Gen. Alberto as the Guest of Honor and Speaker encourage all the diamond troopers to accord Brig. Gen Gacal same support like the previous commander in order to sustain the momentum in fighting insurgency to its final push with solid result.  

“Plan well, think forward and use all available resources, maximize the participation of community and all stakeholders. Let us leave no breathing room for the enemy to regroup or regain foothold. Let us fight to win”. Lt. Gen. Alberto, added.

The Philippine Army affirms its commitment to safeguard and preserve the national sovereignty and territorial integrity of our country for the betterment and well-being of the Filipino people.# 

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