BY ASANGAN T. MADALE
KAMPO RANAO, Marawi City – Colonel Billy O Dela Rosa relinguished duties as Acting Brigade Commander of 103rd Infanrry (HARIBON) Brigade to Brigadier General Yegor Rey P. Barronquuillo Jr as incoming Brigade Commander of the unit Iin a simple ceremony presided by Major General Antonio G. Nafarette, Commander of of Ist Infantry Division, Dela Rosa will remain as Deputy Brigade, Top Officilals said.
A change of command is a military tradition that represents a transfer of authority and responsibility for a unit or command. The history, tradition, and accomplishments of the command are embodied in the colors. The passing of colors from an outgoing commander to an incoming commander ensures that the unit and its Soldiers are never without official leadership, represents a continuation of trust, and signifies an allegiance of Soldiers to their unit’s commander Based on the documents provided to the Manila Times prior to his designation, BGen Barroquillo Jr served as the Regiment Commander of Army Intelligence Regiment (AIR), Phillipine Army. He also led the 44th Infantry Battalion and served as the Battalion Commander. He also held various staff positions such Operations Officer of the 1st Infantry Division.
In his assumption speech, BGen Barroquillo Jr emphasized that he will focus on the attainment of the Brigade’s mission, support the peace agreement with the MILF and MNLF and enhance engagements with various stakeholders. “We shall primarily rely on peaceful mechanisms and put premium on the peace process in dealing with local threat groups and other security issues. However, we cannot put aside the threats of the terrorists group. And for those who choose the path of violence and lawlessness, they shall bear the brunt of our full might.” Said BGen Barroquillo.
“Kapayapaan at Kaunlaran, ito ang ating sama-samang adhikain. Ang lahat ng ito ay makakamit natin, sa pamamagitan ng pagkakaisa at pagtutulungan. Kung kayat, makakaasa ang ating pamunuan at ang ating mga kapatid dito sa dako ng Lanao, na ang 103rd Infantry (HARIBON) Brigade ay maglilingkod ng tapat at buong husay. Maraming salamat at kasiyahan nawa tayo ng ating panginoon.” BGen Barroquillo added.
Major General Nafarette commended the outgoing commander Colonel Dela Rosa for his dedication, great passion, and commitment to the organization. “Your adherence to the standard of excellence in leadership has instilled an encouragement and strength to your subordinates,” Said MGen Nafarette.
“To Brigadier General Barroquillo, my congratulations to you. Your long experience in spans of years of dedicated work in various positions have certainly honed you as a dependable and relevant leader. And to all Haribon Troopers, continue your good deeds, seek for more improvement and always support your new commander in all his undertakings, particularly toward the accomplishment of your mission. I encourage you to keep the fire burning, step up the level of your performance, and continue to focus on accomplishing your goals. In doing this, always be guided by the AFP Core Values of Loyalty, Honor, Duty, Valor and Solidarity.
As your Division Commander, I assure you that the 1st Infantry Division will continue to support your future endeavors. Together, let us uphold our mandate as Filipino soldiers and pursue to deter all threats and finish them once and for all. Mabuhay ang 103rd Brigade, Mabuhay ang Hukbong Katihan ng Pilipinas,” MGen Nafarette added.
The change of Command ceremony was witnessed by the other Commanders of nearby Philippine Army units, Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Navy Marines, Mayors, peace mechanism local chief executive and other partner stakeholders.
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