• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
As the Philippine Army is about to finish Internal Security Operations, it is now up for another big responsibility, which is Territorial Defense Operations, Army chief Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete recently disclosed.
Nafarrete, who visited the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division on October 11 at Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz, lauded the 3ID under the leadership of Maj. Gen. Michael Samson, for their unwavering commitment to fulfilling its mission in Negros Island Region, Western 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. Let us continue what is tasked with us, and rest assured we will support you,” the Army chief told 3ID troops.
Australian and Philippine Army soldiers are presently conducting a month-long joint military exercises and training activities at Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz.
Hundreds of soldiers from the 3ID and Australian Defense Force are set to engage in a series of joint exercises and training activities over the course of 31 days, aimed at strengthening interoperability, enhancing tactical capabilities, and fostering camaraderie between the two allied armies.
According to a statement issued by 3ID, the exercise aims to enhance the interoperability and combined capabilities of both armies through synchronized operations and joint training. Participants will refine their skills in the use of drones, boats, and various defense weapons.
The program also emphasizes teamwork, medical response, and mission planning under unified command structures. Ultimately, the goal is to foster stronger military cooperation and deepen the strategic partnership between the Philippine Army and the Australian Defense Force.
During his visit, Nafarrete also conferred various military awards to 14 soldiers in recognition of their exemplary service. The awards included the Gawad sa Kapayapaan, Military Achievement Medal, Gold Cross Medal, Silver Cross Medal, and the Military Merit Medal with Bronze Spear Device.
Among the awardees were six officers and eight enlisted personnel.*
