Kalinaw News: Acting WestMinCom Chief visits troops in Sulu

Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 3, 2021): Acting WestMinCom Chief visits troops in Sulu



September 3, 2021, Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Jolo, Sulu – In an effort to boost the morale of soldiers confronting local terrorist groups in Sulu, Major General Generoso M Ponio, 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division Commander and newly installed Western Mindanao Command (WMC) Acting Commander, visited troops of the 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division (11ID) at its headquarters in Jolo, Sulu.

On Thursday morning, Major General Ponio was welcomed by Joint Task Force – Sulu and 11ID Commander Major General William N Gonzales. “We feel honored as this is the first division visited by Major General Ponio as the newly installed WMC Chief. He is still the incumbent commander of the Tabak Division yet he made time to congratulate us and see for himself the fast-improving state of the province,” said Major General Gonzales.

During his talk to troops, Major General Ponio reiterated that the all-out offensive of Sulu troops since the August 22, 2021 bombing prevented Abu Sayyaf Group in launching another terroristic attack.

“My first time in Sulu was during my lieutenant days as a team leader of the scout ranger. Now, when I look at Sulu, it just feels different. Same majestic scenery, but totally safer,” the WMC Acting Chief shared.

“We should keep in mind that this became possible not only because of our military offensives, but more on the effective partnership with the local chief executives,” he added.

Earlier that day, Major General Gonzales accompanied Major General Ponio in paying courtesy to Sulu Governor Abdusakur M Tan. The governor told the WMC Chief that the mountains that were previously infested with terror groups are now treking sites.

“Finally, our local tourism is booming. People go out and enjoy our white sand beaches. They trek at Mt Tukay, Bud Talipao and Mt Sinumaan. Because of this, many are venturing into small scales business,” the governor said.

During his visit, Major General Ponio also awarded bronze cross medals to 10 military personnel for their valiant act as responders to the July 4, 2021 C-130 crash. Additionally, he visited the headquarters of 45th Infantry “Gallant” Battalion at Brgy Tugas, Patikul, Sulu wherein he donned the ranks of newly promoted enlisted personnel and delivered an inspirational message.

To note, the WMC Chief previously served as battalion commander of the mentioned unit from 2008 to 2010 wherein the unit was deployed in Isabela and later on in Maguindanao.

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