• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Colonel Marlo Jomalesa, a native of Silay City, Negros Occidental, is now serving as acting commander of the Philippine Army’s 801st Infantry Brigade, operating under the 8th Infantry Division in Samar.
Jomalesa will succeed Brig. Gen. Arlino Sendaydiego, who is retiring from the military service on Nov. 1.
Prior to his new assignment, Jomalesa led the elite 5th Scout Ranger Battalion (SRB) during major armed engagements, including the liberation of Marawi City and operations in Sulu.
Jomalesa was the first battalion commander of the 5th SRB, leading the unit through the intense operations to liberate Marawi City from ISIS-inspired Maute terrorists in 2017.
Under Jomalesa’s command, the battalion neutralized 75 ISIS fighters, rescued 33 civilians, and successfully assaulted the final stronghold of the terrorists.
His troops were also credited with the neutralization of Dr. Mahmud Ahmad, a high-profile Malaysian terrorist financier.
For his exceptional tactical acumen and bravery, Jomalesa was honored by then President Rodrigo Duterte with the Order of Lapu-Lapu and received the Outstanding Combat Leadership Award.
Following the successful liberation of Marawi, Jomalesa and the 5th SRB were redeployed to Sulu province to combat the Abu Sayyaf Group.
He also served as assistant chief of staff for intelligence of the Philippine Army and deputy brigade commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade. | GPB
