4ID welcomes 135 new peace advocates

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 16): 4ID welcomes 135 new peace advocates

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City --- One hundred thirty five (135) new peace advocates and nine active soldiers of the 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division graduated on February 16.

Graduation rites held at the Division Grandstand, the new soldiers are the members of Candidate Soldier Course Class 390 – 2015.

They were able to graduate after completing 20 weeks of military training held at 4th Division Training School at Camp Osito D Bahian, Impalambong, Malaybalay City. They were cross-trained with nine active soldiers of 4ID who have undergone Jungle Warfare and Mountain Operation Course.

During the ceremony, Mary Cor R Calizo, punong barangay of Patag, Cagayan de Oro City graced the ceremony as the guest of honor and speaker. She handed over the firearms issued to the new batch of Army soldiers.

After the ceremony, the order of their assignments will be released by the division adjutant.

The newly graduated soldiers will be deployed and report to their respective unit assignments under the 4ID, covering the provinces of Northern Mindanao and Caraga Region. Their primary task is to protect and safeguard the life and properties of the innocent civilians.

They will also serve as catalysts of peace and development in conflict-affected areas.

In her message Calizo, reminded the new members of the Philippine Army to give value to their service. She also encouraged them to always ask for a divine assistance through prayers, for safety and protection, as they fulfill their duties in the field.

LtCol Febie N Lamerez, commandant of the 4th Division Training School said, “As I have observed from the start of their training until they stand before us today in this hallowed ground of the 4th Infantry Division, they are now ready to face all the challenges in the platform of military aspects.

Lamerez also said he is confident that these new graduates of candidate soldiers were equipped with the needed knowledge and skills.

MGen Oscar T Lactao, 4ID division commander said, “To the new graduates, congratulations and welcome to the noble profession of arms. You are now regular members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Your parents and loved ones are so proud of you. To the Filipino people to whom you dedicate your service, there are a lot of things to be expected from your ability and behavior.

He also reiterated when these new soldiers are already in the field, they have to ensure they always follow the rule of law, rules of engagement, International Humanitarian Law and respect human rights.

Use your newly acquired skills in protecting the people anywhere you may be assigned, said Lactao.

He also thanked the parents and loved ones of the new soldiers for entrusting their sons to this institution. Rest assured that they will be taken cared by the AFP. For the AFP, every soldier counts.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1461455612551/4id-welcomes-135-new-peace-advocates