By Gideon C. Corgue
G7 chief Col. Cornelio Arboleda in a chance interview said that except from the division’s participation in the commemoration program at Rizal monument and flag ceremony at Tabak headquarters, they have conducted also a static display of military armaments, armored vehicles, and so forth.
"We also conducted squad drills, installed booths for recruitment, disaster relief and rescue operation, photo exhibit, display radio communication facilities and a concert dubbed Musikalayaan,” he said.
Arboleda said the 1st Infantry (TABAK) division, through the active leadership of BGen. Ricardo Rainier Cruz III, has lined up these activities to send the message to the public that the AFP is “working for peace and people, and one with the people” since they (people) are the ultimate beneficiaries of peace.
Arboleda said during the event, the public were allowed to touch and carry the guns, get inside the armored personnel carrier vehicles, view the photo exhibit, and watch a video presentation and a free concert, for them to know the Philippine Army’s lead role in ensuring peace and security.
Jane Saldua of Barangay Balangasan with her four-year old daughter was very happy to touch and carry the guns placed in the tables.
“Nalipay ko kaayo tungod kay sa tibuok nako nga kinabuhi karon pa gyud ko una makakita ug makagunit niniing mga klase sa mga pusil. Bug-at kaayo pero nindot ang akong gibati (I was very happy because in my entire life it is my first time to see and carry these different kinds of guns. It’s too heavy but I felt good),” Saldua proudly said.
“Nindot unta nga sa matag-kasaulugan sa adlaw sa kaugalingnan himoon kini sa AFP nga regular nga kalihokan aron ang uban nga wala pa makakita malingaw usab sama sa akong nahimong kasinatian karon (It would be nice if in very Independence day celebration the AFP will make these activities regular so that those who failed to see will enjoy like what I have experienced now). (JPA/GCC/PIA9-Zambosur)
