61 IB commander to focus on "Bayanihan"

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 21): 61 IB commander to focus on "Bayanihan"

ROXAS CITY, Capiz – The implementation of the Internal Peace and Security Plan “Bayanihan” remains a priority directive for the newly-assumed commander of the Army here.

In his speech during the change of command for the Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion based in Lagdungan Tapaz town, 3rd Infantry Division Commander Major General Rey Leonardo Guerrero  urged Lt. Col. Leonardo Peña to meet or even exceed the expectations of the people in his area of responsibility especially in implementing the Internal Peace and Security Plan Bayanihan.

Peña  assumed the post in a ceremony, October 19, vice Lt. Col. Victor Llapitan.

“The command has its full trust and confidence in Lt.Col. Peña as he assumes command of 61IB,” said Guerrero.

With Peña’s competence and extensive knowledge in development and security, Guerrero said he is confident that he will meet or even exceed the expectations of the people in his area of responsibility.

Peña, a native of Batangas and a graduate of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1991, also finished his   Master of Science in Defense Analysis (National Security Affairs) from the  Naval Post Graduate School in California, U.S.A. and his  Master in Public Management major in Development and Security from the Development Academy of the Philippines.

Guerrero also acknowledged the dedication, sacrifices and remarkable accomplishments of the outgoing 61IB commanding officer Lt. Col. Llapitan that  contributed much to the accomplishment of the 3ID’s mission, particularly the successful implementation of the IPSP “Bayanihan” which led to the declaration of Capiz and Iloilo provinces as Peaceful and Ready for Further Development last December 2014 and March 2015 respectively.

For his part, Peña vowed to pursue the best practices that were started and initiated by his predecessor and ensure that the gains in peace and development in the battalion’s area of operations will be sustained by working collectively and collaboratively with the stakeholders.

Part of the activities during the ceremony was the recognition of the all-out support of Governor Victor Tanco and the provincial government of Capiz.

Also recognized were the national government agencies, local government units, non-government and civic organizations as well as private individuals and groups for their commitment, support and cooperation in pursuing peace, security and development in the community.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/991445324286/61-ib-commander-to-focus-on-bayanihan-