CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City – Nine (9) military personnel, including members of the Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) Active Auxiliary (CAA), and eight (8) Stakeholders from Malaybalay City were honored during the 6th Founding Anniversary of the 88th Infantry “Maringal” Battalion, 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division, Philippine Army held at its Headquarters in Brgy. St. Peter, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon on Monday, October 9, 2023.
Anchored on the theme “Unom ka Tuig nga Panaghiusa, Kadaugan, Kalig-on ug Kaisog Atubanga sa Kalisud” the celebration was graced by 4ID Commander Major General Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II as the Guest of Honor and Speaker.
During the ceremony, MGen. Cuerpo II personally led the pinning of Military Merit Medal awards to the outstanding personnel of 88IB and CAAs for their exceptional performance of duty and combat accomplishments during the recent encounter with the communist terrorist group (CTG) on September 8, 2023, that resulted in the capture of one (1) AK47, one (1) M1 Garand rifle and other war materials, thereby significantly contributed to the achievements of the unit’s mission.
Likewise, a Plaque of Recognition was awarded to selected stakeholders for their unwavering support and collaboration for the unit’s peace campaign, which is essential for fostering peace and development in the province of Bukidnon. Among the awardees were Hon. Rogelio “Neil” Roque, the Governor of Bukidnon; Hon. Keith Flores, 2nd District Representative of Bukidnon; Hon. Royland M. Orquia, City Councilor of Malaybalay City; Hon. Warren Pabillaran, City Mayor of Malaybalay City; Hon. Lolita N. Bullecer, Municipal Mayor of Cabanglasan; Atty. Rommel M. Alonto, Deputy Provincial Prosecutor of Bukidnon; Mr. Jun Maban, Station Manager of RMN Malaybalay City; and Hon. Rubencio T. Organiza Sr., Brgy Chairman of Brgy St. Peter, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.
In his message, MGen. Cuerpo II lauded the troops of 88IB for their dedication and commitment to the excellent performance of their mandate and the sterling leadership of its Commanding Officer, Lt. Col. Eric G Dema-Ala, that led to the various accomplishments of the unit. Likewise, he also recognized the invaluable contribution of stakeholders in achieving the unit’s objectives. Further, he enjoined the troops to never lose sight of their mission and let it be an inspiration to all to work harder and achieve more for the good of the community.
“For the many things you have accomplished, you all deserve congratulations. But this should not keep us from putting our focus and energy again in the future in accomplishing our mission. Let this be an inspiration to everyone. What you have accomplished will serve as an inspiration to all of us, that we will exert more effort so that we can achieve our mission faster. With our partners who are here with us now, whom we also recognized for their support and contribution so that we can achieve our mission here in Bukidnon,” MGen Cuerpo II said.
