DAVAO CITY – The 28th Infantry Battalion (28IB) of the Philippine Army is on the brink of a momentous undertaking as it undergoes intensive training for the United Nations Peace Support Operations (PSO) Mission scheduled for next year.
Recognized as a core unit of the Philippine Army United Nations Light Infantry Battalion (Team), the 28IB is set to undergo rigorous training in Luzon for nearly a year before its deployment in 2024.
Send-off Ceremony Marks a Milestone
In a recent interview, Maj. Mark Anthony Tito, spokesperson for the Army’s 10th Infantry Division (10ID), shed light on the send-off ceremony held on June 13 at the 10ID headquarters in Mawab town, Davao de Oro province. The event served as a momentous occasion for the 28IB as it prepared to embark on its international mission.
Maj. Tito underscored the significance of the 28IB’s selection, stating,
“Out of the many battalions of the Philippine Army, they were chosen. They will undergo training in Luzon for almost a year before their deployment in 2024.”
He further revealed that additional personnel would be joining the team in the coming days, further bolstering their capabilities.
Embracing the Mission with Dedication and Professionalism
During the solemn send-off ceremony, Maj. Gen. Jose Eriel Niembra, commander of the 10th Infantry Division, delivered a heartfelt message to the troopers, urging them to approach their mission with unwavering dedication and professionalism.
He emphasized their role as representatives not only of the 10ID but also of the Philippine Army and the entire nation.
Maj. Gen. Niembra stated,
“Your conduct will shape the perception of future Filipino peacekeepers, and you have the power to inspire generations to come.”
Commendations for Achievements
Amidst the ceremony’s solemnity, the 28IB received well-deserved commendations for its remarkable achievements.
The battalion’s successful dismantling of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) Guerilla Front 2 and Sub-Regional Guerilla Unit of Sub-Regional Committee 2, both associated with the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee, was recognized by the 1001st Infantry Brigade and the 10ID.
This significant feat resulted in the declaration of Davao de Oro as an insurgency-free province.
A Proud Moment for the Philippine Army and the Nation
As the 28IB embarks on its journey to participate in the UN PSO Mission, the Philippine Army and the nation at large celebrate their accomplishments in addressing internal security challenges while preparing for the global stage.
The forthcoming year of training will not only equip the battalion with the necessary skills but will also instill in them a deep sense of responsibility and honor, carrying forward the legacy of Filipino peacekeepers who have come before them.
In the spirit of unity and shared aspirations for peace, the Philippines stands firmly behind the 28IB and wishes them success in their noble mission to promote harmony and security on the international stage.
Sources: THX News & Philippine News Agency.
