The Armed Forces of the Philippines has conferred the campaign streamer awards to the Philippine Army’s 303rd Infantry Brigade and the 62nd Infantry Battalion for their successful peace campaign in Negros Island.
The awarding was held during the 88th AFP founding anniversary rites held at Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Dec. 21.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. awarded the campaign streamer to the 303IB led by Brig. Gen. Orlando Edralin and 62IB headed by Lt. Col. William Pesase for their successful peace campaign, particularly in the dismantling of the New People’s Army’s Central Negros 1 guerrilla front under the Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor.
Edralin expressed his gratitude to the AFP leadership for recognizing the relentless efforts of the Army in Negros in ending the decades-long insurgency.
“We are grateful and honored for the recognition given to us by the AFP, highlighting our contribution to the government’s counter-insurgency drive in Negros”, Edralin said.
He attributed the award to the Negrenses who have been partners in all their endeavors.
“It is also a testament to our genuine commitment to end the local communist armed conflict in Negros Island. Rest assured, we will continue our efforts until Negros Island is declared insurgency-free,” Edralin said.
Maj. Gen. Marion Sison, commander of 3rd Infantry Division, lauded the 303IBde and 62IB for showing their commitment and excellent service in performing their duties and responsibilities.
“Their outstanding performance and deep commitment to their duty in the conduct of their crucial task and campaign plan are worthy of being awarded and are truly remarkable achievements,” he added. | GB
