Army's Mechanized Infantry Division activates brand-new unit

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 22): Army's Mechanized Infantry Division activates brand-new unit

The Mechanized Infantry Division (MID) on Monday formally activated its 6th Mechanized Infantry Battalion (Provisional).

Major Gen. Gilbert Gapay served as presiding officer and keynote speaker during the event held at Camp O'Donnell, Capas, Tarlac.

Gapay urged officers and enlisted personnel of the new unit to enhance their individual competencies, level-up capabilities, and adhere to the highest degree of professionalism.

MID spokesperson, Maj. Emman Adriano, said the activation of the 6th Mechanized Infantry Battalion is in line with Gapay's vision of becoming more capable, more responsive and relevant armor force.

The 6th Mechanized Infantry Battalion is commanded by Lt. Col. Ferdinand L. Dela Cruz.

Also, the unit's activation is part of the goal of Army chief, Major Gen. Macairog Alberto, of turning the PA into a more agile, highly maneuverable, and more effective force.

Based with the past experiences in campaigns in Marawi, Zamboanga and other operations against various threat groups, it is but fitting to have a rapid deployment force from the MID that could provide superior firepower, speed, shock action, and armor-protected maneuver unit which can operate in all types of environment.

He said the unit is MID’s immediate contribution to the Armed Forces of the Philippines in the execution of ground operations against security threats to accelerate resolution of armed conflicts.

The unit, Adriano said, is also capable preparing non-traditional military role such as support to law enforcement and disaster response operations nationwide.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1051769