Battle-hardened 2nd Marine Battalion deployed for security missions to Sultan Kudarat

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 24): Battle-hardened 2nd Marine Battalion deployed for security missions to Sultan Kudarat
The 500-strong 2nd Marine Battalion, one of the military's combat seasoned unit, was ordered deployed to Sultan Kudarat province effective Wednesday .

The unit, which is commanded by Lt. Col. Jose Marie Santos, underwent rigorous re-training from April until this month.

Capt. Victor Donque, Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) spokesperson, said the 2nd Marine Battalion undergone intensified training on both lectures and practical exercises on administrative matters, military tactics, simulated military planning, live-fire maneuvers, marksmanship and rigid physical fitness activities.

He added the unit also participated in the recently concluded Philippine and US Amphibious Landing Exercise.

Prior re-training, Donque said the 2nd Marine Battalion has earned numerous victories against lawless elements and terrorists in the southern part of the Philippines.

Its major accomplishments include combat operations against the dreaded Abu Sayyaf terrorists in Tawi-Tawi and Sulu while equally performed significant non-traditional roles such as civil-military operations that has gained superb appreciation from the natives as well as stakeholders from the said areas.

Formal send-off for the 2nd Marine Battalion took place at the Capt. Salvo Pier , Sangley Point, Cavite City.

The unit movement is part of the rotation policy of the PMC to retrain and refurbish Marine Battalions in the field.

 http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=942879