By Alma L. Tingcang
LABANGAN, Zamboanga del Sur – Lt.Gen. Alan R. Luga, vice chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said soldiers are duty-bound to protect our countrymen and keep them free from fear and anxiety.
This, he said, during the 78th founding anniversary of the 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division (1ID), Philippine Army on May 7 at Camp Major Cesar Sang-an at Barangay Pulacan in this town.
“This is why our soldiers are continuously being molded so that our dependable military does not stop from just being an excellent defender of the nation, but also become an institution that people trust,” Luga stressed.
He lauded the Tabak troopers for upholding their mandate as defenders of the country, for being professional and disciplined and for putting the welfare of people first before their own.
“The 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division is the fightingest division of the Philippine Army, standing strong amidst the challenges and adversities of 2013 such as the Zamboanga siege and promptly responding to ensure the swift delivery of relief goods to the victims of Typhoon Yolanda,” encouraged Luga.
Meanwhile, MGen Felicito Virgilio M. Trinidad, commander of the 1ID, PA said being the premier division in the Philippine Army, Tabak remains steadfast in the performance of its mandated mission, adhering to democratic ideals and guided by the principle of good governance.
“The midterm and barangay elections were the most peaceful and orderly elections in recent history,” Trinidad said. He also cited that there was never a violation of the ceasefire agreement by his troops, gaining the trust and confidence of the people.
On the occasion of its 78th Founding Anniversary, the 11D also distributed Tabak Ventures Educational Certificates to 15 dependents at P10,000 each for their tuition and other school fees.
Plaques of appreciation were also given to partner agencies which have made immense contribution and invaluable support to the humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations for the victims of Typhoon Yolanda, of which PIA was one of the awardees.