DWDD: PMA CLASS 1994 GRADS II Assume Key Battalion Post in Sulu, Basilan

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Feb 17): PMA CLASS 1994 GRADS II Assume Key Battalion Post in Sulu, Basilan

SULU / BASILAN (DWDD) – In two consecutive days, four battalion commanders coming from the Philippine Military Academy’s Bantay-Laya class 1994 formally took over the leadership of key battalions in Sulu and Basilan, considered to be the most challenging and critical areas these days for military operations and combat missions.

In a Joint Change of Command Ceremony on Monday, February 15, 2016, Lt. Col. Ramon P. Flores formally assumed command of the 32nd Infantry Battalion upon relief of Lt. Col. Gregorio S. Nieveras, while Lt. Col. Vladimir Lenos T. Villanueva took over the leadership of the 35th Infantry Battalion from Lt. Col. Marces T. Gayat.

On February 16 in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan, Lt. Col. Julius A. Cabarloc assumed command of the 64th Infantry Battalion vice Lt. Col. Melisan Raymund N. Recaido. Immediately after, in Ungkaya Pukan, Basilan, Lt. Col. Ricardo M. Lucero assumed as commanding officer of the 18th Infantry Battalion upon relief of Lt. Col. Enerito D. Lebeco.

MGen. Gerardo F. Barrientos Jr., Commanding General, 1^st Infantry Division and presiding officer of the ceremonies, said he personally handpicked the new battalion commanders from among many candidates.

“HIndi sila nag-volunteer dito. I have personally chosen them to lead these units. Matagal kong ni-research kung sino ang mga kukunin ko, the appropriate personalities. I can also assure local governments here that these people will be your partners in peace and development,” Major General Barrientos said. 1DPAO / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/pma-class-1994-grads-ii-assume-key-battalion-post-in-sulu-basilan/