CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City — The Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (CSAFP), General Romeo S Brawner Jr., lauded the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division for its recent outstanding accomplishments against the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) that led to the neutralization of its top leaders during his visit to Camp Romualdo C. Rubi, Barangay Bancasi, Butuan City on February 28, 202
The visit aimed to recognize the recent exceptional feat of 4ID, further strengthen the morale of troops, and assess the 4ID’s anti-insurgency campaign.
Gen. Brawner was warmly welcomed by Brigadier General Michele B Anayron Jr., along with the Key Officers as well as Brigade and Battalion Commanders of 4ID.
This was followed by an executive session and a briefing on the division’s operational accomplishments, particularly its sustained efforts to neutralize CTG threats and maintain stability in the Northern Mindanao and Caraga regions.
In his address to the troops, the CSAFP emphasized the significance of their dedication and sacrifice in ensuring national security. He highlighted that the military’s commitment to eliminating insurgency has led to substantial gains in peace and development. He further assured them of the AFP’s unwavering support in addressing their welfare and operational needs.
Highlighting the visit was the awarding ceremony where General Brawner Jr., personally conferred commendation awards and ribbons to outstanding personnel of the 401st Infantry Brigade and the 901st Infantry Brigade. 12 officers and 7 enlisted personnel from 901Bde were awarded for their outstanding performance of duty during the encounter last February 12, 2025, in Butuan City, resulting to the neutralization of CPP-NPA top leader in Caraga, Myrna Sularte alias Maria Malaya.
Moreover, 8 officers and 5 enlisted personnel from the 401st Infantry Brigade were awarded for their bravery and dedication during the encounter with CTG, also on February 12, in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, which led to the death of Larry Garcia, alias Joven, the commanding officer of RSDG, NEMRC, and his vice commanding officer, alias Gaga/Gearing.
In his message, the CSAFP commended the outstanding performance of the awardees and underscored the importance of collaborative effort in achieving mission accomplishments.
“To those who are recognized today, you have gone above and beyond in fulfilling our purpose. Your actions are a powerful reminder of the difference between one person, or one team can make. Your achievement today is not only a testament to your strength but also to the collective spirit of all of us working hand-in-hand,” the CSAFP said.
Acknowledging these achievements, General Brawner Jr. emphasized the importance of perseverance and continuous progress to sustain the momentum.
“I remember our motto—no let-up. We keep moving forward, maintaining our momentum, and never stopping. That mindset of continuous progress is what truly matters. I’m glad to see efforts being made to strengthen our strategies and plans, ensuring that everything is well-coordinated and effective,” he added.
As part of the visit, General Brawner also discussed the Territorial Defense Plan “Tatag Kapuluan,” a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing the country’s defense posture amid evolving security challenges
Further, CSAFP reiterated the AFP’s commitment as a non-partisan and highly professional organization that is focus primarily on the AFP’s task and directed all troops to always be loyal to the constitution, the Philippine Flag.
