3rd Infantry cited for Bayanihan effort

From the Visayan Daily Star (May 23): 3rd Infantry cited for Bayanihan effort

Army chief Lt. Gen. Hernado Iriberri yesterday praised the 3rd Infantry Division for its success in the implementation and promotion of the Bayanihan effort, leading to the recent declaration of Negros Oriental as a Manageable Conflict-Affected and Development-Ready province.

Iriberri, who was the guest of honor and speaker during the 40th founding anniversary celebration of 3ID in Jamindan, Capiz, said, “As you usher more provinces and communities in Negros and Panay to normalcy, we will see the light of hope for peace and development shining through and eventuality spreading across all of the Visayas.”

He said the 3ID is now in the homestretch in clearing 52 communities from the control of the New People’s Army in Negros and Panay, following the liberation of 20 barangays from rebel influence.

“This gain can serve as a template for your other efforts in bringing lasting peace in the region,” Iriberri added.

He also acknowledged the contribution of 3ID interagency partners in winning the peace campaign. “It is my firm belief that 3ID and the Philippine Army alone could never lead to the much longed-for-peace in the same way that divided efforts will not result in victory of our campaign, Iriberri also said.

He noted the exemplary performance of 3ID, headed by Maj. Gen. Aurelio Baladad, in the delivery of humanitarian assistance and disaster response, in the aftermath of typhoon Yolanda.

“Your perseverance to deliver disaster response and relief operations in spite of your agony is unimaginable,” Iriberri said, noting that some of them lost their loved ones.

“As we work together, we can overcome many difficulties and eventually march toward the realization of our goals for peace and development in this region,” Iriberri also said.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2014/May/23/negor3.htm