BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Maj. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, newly-installed Army’s 3rd Infantry Division commander, yesterday encouraged the support of various stakeholders in the fight against the New People’s Army and the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We should face both squarely. We should win over the threats they are posing,” Arevalo stressed during the change of command ceremony at Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz, which was presided over by Army chief Lt. Gen. Andres Centino through a telethon.
Arevalo, who previously served as commander of 301st Infantry Brigade in Iloilo and 303rd Infantry Brigade in Negros Island, underscored the importance of engaging the stakeholders, including local government units, national government agencies, civil society, academe, and different sectors of society to sustain the operational momentum and accomplishments.
“With your support, your Army and PNP can perform at its best to be able to deliver the peace that can contribute to the development of the region,” he stressed.
Army infantry units being supervised by 3ID are operating in Regions 6 and 7, of which bulk of the forces are stationed in Negros Island.
With familiarity of the area, undeniable wit and creativity combined with the determination to win while putting of premium to the welfare of Army personnel, Centino said that Maj. Gen. Arevalo will surely bring more accomplishments to 3ID and Philippine Army as a whole.
“You need to continue building on the gains achieved by your predecessors and former Spearhead Troopers who have made the ultimate sacrifice to bring just, genuine, and lasting peace in this area, he said.
In his assumption speech, Arevalo stressed that he assumed the position as 3ID chief, not just to command and give orders, but to serve them to perform their job well.
Under his leadership, Arevalo emphasized his philosophy that the Division is to serve, and not to be served.
He also bared his campaign philosophy that will be guided by the mantra or slogan “Loved by people, feared by the enemy.”
Arevalo stressed that 3ID troopers should continue winning the hearts and minds of the people through Civil Military Operation activities.
To be feared by the enemy, they should be relentless, aggressive, and offensive in combat operations he stressed.
Arevalo is a recipient of various military awards and decorations, including Distinguished Service Star, Bronze Cross Medals, Silver Wing Medal, Long Service Medal, Anti-Dissident Campaign Medals and Ribbons, and numerous military merit and civic action medals, and several commendations and honors both from military and civilian sectors.*
