97IB undergoes organizational training

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 8): 97IB undergoes organizational training

KUTA SANG-AN, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur -- The 97th (Kalasag Lahi) Battalion under the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army, which was activated on April 16 is undergoing organizational training starting May 3.

The new battalion was formally activated in a simple ceremony held at Tabak Grandstand, pursuant to General Orders No. 211. The Philippine Army has directed the activation and operationalization of 10 additional infantry battalions wherein the 1st Infantry Division is among the recipients.

The 97IB is headed by LTC Rufino L De Leon, GSC PA, with 400 soldiers taken from the different line units under the 1ID. Some of the new privates who graduated from the Candidate Soldier Course last April 5 are now part of the new battalion.

The activation of this new battalion aims to augment the units covering the entire Western Mindanao Region in sustaining the gains of Tabak troopers in keeping the peace and development in their area of responsibility.

“The command has its full trust and confidence in choosing the leadership of LTC De Leon as the pioneer Commanding Officer of 97IB. Always think about the welfare of each and every one of you so as nobody in your unit will be placed in danger. Also, don’t forget the discipline and the prestige of a real Filipino soldier,” said MGen Roseller G Murillo, 1ID Commander.

“The organizational training for the 97th IB that will start today is designed to enhance the competence and individual skills of every soldier and also to develop their teamwork as a unit. Training builds competence, and competence builds confidence”, the military commander added.

De Leon expressed gratitude to Murillo for entrusting him the leadership as commandant of the 1st Division Training School as he embarks on a new challenge to lead the 97IB.

http://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1007625