‘Alakdan’ division installs new HHSBn commander

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Feb 27, 2023): ‘Alakdan’ division installs new HHSBn commander

ZAMBOANGA. Army’s 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division (ID) installs a new commander of its Headquarters and Headquarters Service Battalion (HHSBn) based in Camp Teofulfo Bautista in Jolo, Sulu. A photo handout shows Lieutenant Colonel Charlotte Jenifer Valdez (left) relinquished her command to Lieutenant Colonel Eddie Abolencia (right) with Major General Ignatius Patrimonio, 11ID commander, presiding the change of command ceremony on Friday, February 24, 2023. (SunStar Zamboanga)

THE Army’s 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division has installed a new commander of its Headquarters and Headquarters Service Battalion (HHSBn) based in Camp Teofulfo Bautista in Jolo, Sulu.

Installed as the new HHSBn commander is Lieutenant Colonel Eddie Abolencia who replaced Lieutenant Colonel Charlotte Jenifer Valdez.

During the change of commander ceremony on Friday, February 24, Major General Ignatius Patrimonio, 11ID commander, pinned the Military Merit Medal to Valdez for her invaluable services and untiring efforts rendered as the HHSBn commander from February 24, 2021 to February 24, 2023.

Valdez also received the Plaque of Recognition from the 11ID.

Valdez, who served as HHSBn commander for two years, demonstrated exemplary performance as a senior female officer that is worthy of being emulated.

“My assignment here in Sulu was the most unexpected and memorable experience. The milestone in my career is even more special because only a few female officers are given the chance to lead a battalion,” Valdez said.

“The Alakdan Division has given me the opportunity to break barriers of norms and stereotyping in the military. It’s been an honor to lead and serve this diverse unit. To the incoming Commanding Officer, I assure you that you have the finest men and women to carry on the work that remains to be done,” Valdez added.

“As I go forward on performing my new duties and responsibilities, I am thankful for another opportunity, trust and confidence entrusted to me. Rest assured that I will exert all efforts to deliver what you expected of me,” Abolencia said.

“To my predecessor, we will continue what you have started. I assure you that the unit personnel and its resources is on the hands of a noble shepherd,” Abolencia added.

Meanwhile, Patrimonio lauded Valdez for her excellent leadership during her stint and challenged Abolencia for his new position.

“Lieutenant Colonel Valdez your dedication and determination turned the unit with a culture of excellence. Your leadership has influenced the mentality of the personnel. You are not only exemplars of professionalism but you are also instrumental in the accomplishment of this unit,” Patrimonio said.

“To Lieutenant Colonel Abolencia, you are chosen and hand fit to lead this unit. We expect that you will continue what your predecessor has started. We believe that you can transform and improve more and maintain the disciplined of this unit,” Patrimonio added.

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1954592/zamboanga/local-news/alakdan-division-installs-new-hhsbn-commander