FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila - The Philippine Army 7th Infantry "Kaugnay" Division welcomed its new Commander in a Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony presided by the Commanding General, Philippine Army today, March 25, 2020 at Headquarters 7th Infantry Division, Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija.
Due to the threat of COVID-19, the Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony was held via live stream where the outgoing Commander Maj. Gen. Lenard T. Agustin passed the baton to incoming Commander Brig. Gen. Alfredo B. Rosario Jr.
Rosario, a graduate of Philippine Military Academy Class 1988, has evidently demonstrated his capability as a versatile officer and leader on his two previous posts as a Brigade Commander of 602nd Brigade, 6th Infantry Division; and as a Commander of Joint Task Force Haribon, Eastern Mindanao Command. Prior to the assignment, Rosario also commanded 7th Military Intelligence Battalion, 71st Infantry Battalion, and 56th Infantry Battalion of 7ID.
Agustin, on the other hand, has served as the 7ID Commander for one (1) year and one (1) month before retiring with 38 years of Military service. During his stint as a Commander, he spearheaded the "Kaugnay sa Kapayapaan" which led to the dismantling of Kilusang Larangang Gerilya Caraballo of Central Luzon Regional Committee, neutralization of 1, 075 CPP-NPA-Terrorists (CNTs), recovery of 110 assorted firearms, and clearing of nine (9) affected barangays of the CNTs influence.
“To the men and women of Kaugnay Division, I expect you to maintain the same level of support to BGen Rosario, this is more vital now as we ensure security at the same time confronting COVD-19” said Gapay.
"Bear in mind of our role in times of national emergency - to protect our people, to ease the impact of the calamity, and to restore normalcy," added Gapay.
“Always think about what you stand for in front of 7ID headquarters, the statue of President Magsaysay, while shielding its eyes from distractions, is looking forward, it is a symbol of focus, hope, and trust.” Gapay further added.