CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City – The 402nd Infantry “Stingers” Brigade of the Philippine Army welcomed Colonel Emil J. Cruz as its new Acting Commander during a Change of Command Ceremony. The event was presided over by 4ID Commander Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II on November 26, 2024, at Camp Romualdo C. Rubi in Barangay Bancasi, Butuan City.
Colonel Cruz, who previously served as the Deputy Brigade Commander, has officially taken command of the Brigade from Major General Adonis Ariel G. Orio. Major General Orio is now the 27th Commander of the 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division of the Philippine Army, based in Camp Vicente Lukban, Catbalogan City, Samar.
Maj. Gen. Orio, who commanded the brigade for three years and four months, was instrumental in elevating the Stinger Brigade to new heights, achieving unprecedented successes in combat and non-combat operations.
During his tenure, the brigade successfully conducted intelligence and focus military operations, resulting in 73 government-initiated encounters. These operations led to the death of 36 CPP New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists and the apprehension of 18 others, including high-value individuals and top leaders of the communist terrorist group (CTG). Additionally, the brigade initiated 18 brigade-sized operations and resource control operations, which contributed to the dismantling of SRC 3 and SRSDG Sagay, both under the CTG’s North Central Mindanao Regional Committee. These actions significantly diminished the terrorist group’s firepower, resources, and manpower.
Meanwhile, Col. Cruz expressed deep gratitude to Major General Orio for his guidance and dedication in leading the brigade toward excellence. In his remarks, He acknowledged the strong foundation established by his predecessor and emphasized the importance of building upon the unit’s successes. “The 402nd Brigade has fought valiantly to suppress the forces that threaten peace and order in Northern Mindanao. We vow to continue protecting the people and securing the land,” he stated.
In his message, Maj. Gen. Cuerpo conveyed his deep appreciation to Maj. Gen. Orio for his exceptional leadership and contributions to the Command’s mission accomplishments during his tenure. He also welcomed and congratulated Col. Cruz on his new position, and expressed confidence in his leadership abilities and skills in leading the brigade.
In light of the new leadership, he urged the troops to uphold the unit’s high standards of readiness and proficiency. He reminded them that their tactical skills are essential for ensuring continued success, especially in situations where armed conflict may arise.
“I want our Stingers Troopers to maintain their tactical proficiency so we can sustain favorable results, particularly during armed encounters. While we prefer to promote peace and avoid using our weapons, we are still bound by our duty to employ sufficient force against those who continue to terrorize and brainwash innocent civilians for their misguided propaganda,” MGen. Cuerpo added.
