by Claire R. Gigje
MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)–The 55th Engineer “Mobilizer” Brigade has held a ceremony to honor its retiring commander, BGen. Irineo Sebastian.
On February 7, Sebastian officially exited his post as the chief of the army engineers.
He received plaques of recognition from various stakeholders, and Philippine Army Vice Commander BGen. Steve Crespillo personally handed over a statue of Lapulapu, who is best known for portraying the symbol of a Filipino reservist when he and some volunteer Filipino warriors displayed bravery and patriotism and dignified the reservist in their character of volunteerism, love of country, and service to their countrymen.
Sebastian also received his reservist identification card as proof of his membership in the Philippine Army Reserve Component.
During his retirement ceremony, the commander thanked the people who had helped him do well in his job.
He specifically mentioned his family and commanders with whom he succeeded for the inspiration, trust, and confidence accorded to him until the day of his retirement.
Sebastian thanked his subordinates and the private partners of his brigade for their support in his endeavors.
“All my humble accomplishments are the conglomeration of the contributions of every single soldier and officer of this unit, including the stakeholders,” he said.
Sebastian highlighted his past years of service as fulfilling, as he saw his experience as a dynamic and continuing process of fine-tuning their systems, processes, and management and capability development.
“This change of command and retirement ceremony are all part of the integral process of continuing and improving our organization. It has been a tedious and challenging but very rewarding journey,” he said.
As he finally ended his stint, Sebastian welcomed incoming brigade commander Col. Ulpiano Olarte to his new position.
He wished Olarte luck and success as commander, assuring him that mobilizer troops would be there to assist him. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)
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