FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila –The Philippine Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Macairog S. Alberto led the ceremonial ribbon-cutting and unveiling of base developmental projects at5th Infantry (Star) Division stationed atCamp MelchorDela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela onMonday, February 11, 2019.
The CGPA served as the guest of honor and speaker during the event, wherein he wasassisted by Isabela Province Governor Faustino “Bojie” Dy III and 5ID Commander, Maj.Gen. Rimando.The 5ID highlighted several base developmental projects that it has accomplished such as parking bay, 18-hole golf course, 22 bay firing ranges, multi-purpose building and other few minor projects.The CGPA was also tendered a window tour to the proposed site of CGPA quarters at the said camp.
Lt. Gen. Alberto was warmly welcomed by the personnel of 5th Infantry (Star) Division through a Military Honor led by Maj. Gen. Rimando. It was followed by an executive briefing to apprise him of the progress of the Division’s peace and development campaign within its area of responsibility.
The development of the capability of the Philippine Army is geared towards defeating the current and future threats of the country. However, the PA also gives equal emphasis on base support system and development of basic camp facilities which aims to improve the quality of life of soldiers and families. The establishment of the new facilities was a good opportunity for the soldiers to enjoy a positive environment and build their morale so that they will be motivated and effective in the performance of their mission.
Meanwhile, in his meeting with the troops, CGPA stressed to remain apolitical in view of the coming 2019 midterm election and urged everyone to strengthen their commitment in support of the conduct of an honest, orderly and peaceful political exercise. He also emphasized some guidelines such as, to sustain the conduct of adaptive and pro-active trainings to ensure readiness in complex emergencies, proper maintenance and inventory of issued firearms and ammunitions and strengthening of Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit as a force multiplier.
CGPA also reiterated his desire for the improvement of medical health services which focus on the improvement of forward support medical unit’s capability to address the troop’s requirement in the frontline, particularly on increasing their survivability in combat. Moreover, he took note that the Army is currently eyeing for the best quality uniforms and equipment in the market to gear-up its soldiers, Army-wide.
Subsequently, Lt. Gen. Alberto presided the awarding of some units and personnel who had excelled and significantly contributed to the Division’s peace and development effort. The 502ND Infantry (Liberator) Brigade and 86th Infantry (Highlander) Battalion were both adjudged as Best Brigade and Battalion respectively, while Gold Cross Medal was conferred to six personnel namely, 1st Lt. Eugene E.Feraniel, 2nd Lt. Kenneth Y. Labo, Cpl. Zaldy M. Mayor, Cpl. Norlito M. Timbreza, Pfc. Reynaldo I. Macad and Pfc. Booston A. Tulni for their gallantry in combat.
Notably, the 5ID for this year alone, under the able leadership of Maj. Gen. Rimando has been instrumental and facilitated the awarding of certificate of land titles and financial assistance under Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) to three former rebels in Cagayan and two from Ifugao, along with 14 former “Militia ng Bayan” or CNT supporters. While on focus military operation, the Division had recorded the seizure of 69 firearms and 34 improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
Lt. Gen. Alberto expressed his appreciation to the leadership of 5ID under Maj.Gen. Rimando for their utmost dedication and sterling accomplishments in support of the government’s peace and development thrust. “Let us continue to work and endeavor to make the Philippine Army an agile force, responsive to the needs of the Filipino people.”#
