• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Philippine Army is gearing up for territorial defense operations amid the ongoing military exercises and training activities between Australian and Filipino army soldiers at Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz.
Army chief Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, who visited the 3rd Infantry Division (ID) in Capiz on Oct. 11, lauded the unit under the leadership of Maj. Gen. Michael Samson for their unwavering commitment to fulfilling the Philippine Army’s mission in Negros Island Region, Western Visayas, and Central Visayas.
“Your Army will always support you with all the capacity that we have. Let us continue the good work, and hopefully we will be able to finish our internal security operations and focus again on another big responsibility – the territorial defense operations,” the Army chief told the 3ID troops.
For 31 days, hundreds of soldiers from the 3ID and Australian Defense Force will engage in a series of joint exercises and training activities aimed at strengthening interoperability, enhancing tactical capabilities, and fostering camaraderie between the two allied armies.
In a statement, the 3ID said the exercise aims to enhance the interoperability and combined capabilities of both armies through synchronized operations and joint training, adding that participants will refine their skills in the use of drones, boats, and various defense weapons.
During his visit, Nafarrete conferred various military awards on 14 soldiers, including six officers and eight enlisted personnel, in recognition of their exemplary service.
The awards included the Gawad sa Kapayapaan, Military Achievement Medal, Gold Cross Medal, Silver Cross Medal, and Military Merit Medal. | GB
