CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental – The 58th Infantry Dimalulupig Battalion celebrated its 36th Founding Anniversary on Monday, November 08, 2021, at Headquarters 58IB, Sitio Migbanday, Poblacion, Claveria, Misamis Oriental.
The theme for this year’s anniversary is Dimalulupig at 36: Conquering Challenges, Harnessing Change, with Brigadier General George L Banzon, the 23rd Battalion Commander of 58IB and currently the 901st Infantry Brigade Commander, as the Guest of Honor and Speaker.
Brigadier General George L Banzon led the distribution of plaques of recognition to all partner stakeholders who contributed to the unit’s mission, along with Col Adonis Ariel G Orio, 402nd Infantry Brigade Commander, and Lt. Col Ricky L Canatoy, Commanding Officer of 58IB. They also led the awarding of honors to deserving 58IB personnel for their valiance in combat and intelligence operations, and even administration.
Lt. Col Ricky L Canatoy emphasized the unit’s accomplishments and the unit’s 36 years of overcoming numerous challenges and harnessing change to its advantage. “As we mark our unit’s founding anniversary, I can’t help but be proud that, despite the challenges, the Dimalulupig troopers never wavered and fully embraced the tasks at hand in order to complete the mission.” With that, I’d like to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone for all of your efforts in realizing our accomplishments and overcoming the challenges that arose.”
“In addition, the success of the unit was made possible through the effective collaboration of the different stakeholders towards achieving a common goal. You’ve all become more than just our partners and our backbone in successfully carrying out all the tasks at hand; you’ve also become our friends, and for that, we are eternally grateful. Thank you for your trust and for being of service to all the populace as well as the Dimalulupig troopers.”
“Once again, thank you, 58IB Dimalulupig troopers, our partner stakeholders, families, and friends. There is still much to be done. But let us not lose sight of our dedication to duty, our passion for serving the people, and our ingrained culture of excellence. May this occasion rekindle everyone’s passion and commitment to carrying out their respective responsibilities. Happy 36th Founding Anniversary! To God be all the glory!” Lt. Col Canatoy concluded.
Furthermore, Col Adonis Ariel G Orio delivered an inspiring message to the troops. “I commend all Dimalulupig troopers for your contributions, as well as the contributions of the unit as a whole, over the last 36 years.” Since its inception, the 58IB has come a long way. We’ve been through so many campaigns and overcome moral and encompassing challenges that called our integrity and capability as a unit into question, and yet we’ve emerged stronger than ever. The year 2021 is no exception. Let us not lose sight of our mission and remain committed and dedicated to it. I congratulate and thank all members of the 58IB troopers for their service and sacrifice.”
“I encourage all personnel of this unit to continue their invaluable work as defenders and guardians of democracy with the utmost loyalty and dedication.” Let us keep the vision of excellence that has become your trademark as we close another historic year of success. Congratulations on reaching another year; we have every reason to celebrate another successful year.”
Meanwhile, Brigadier General George L Banzon congratulated the 58IB on its significant achievements and contribution to the campaign to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, paving the way for various developments in the municipalities within its area of operations. “When I was the Battalion Commander, when people heard the name Claveria, Misamis Oriental, they immediately thought of fear.” But today, as we drove through the Civoleg on our way here, we noticed a significant change in the situation. The various operations carried out previously have finally yielded positive results. We can now clearly see that the economic activities along the upland Claveria have changed significantly. And that is one of the most important accomplishments of which you should be proud as Dimalulupig Troopers.”
“Your tireless efforts and selfless and dedicated service resulted in a number of developments. Maintain the positive relationships you’ve built with your partners and stakeholders and collaborate with them to achieve long-term peace and inclusive development for all. Finally, let us continue to serve the people as true servants of the people, steadfast in our mission and loyal to our flag and constitution.”
The 58th Infantry Dimalulupig Battalion had previously launched several activities to commemorate its 36th Founding Anniversary, including recognition of the unit’s fallen heroes, a mass wedding ceremony of former rebels, and various team competitions among line companies and sections to promote camaraderie and rapport.
