O ne of the true treasures of the nation is not gold or silver, but the soldiers who display their heroism in different forms and occasions.
Heroism was displayed by soldiers in their struggle for Philippine Independence against the
Spaniards and Americans. In the ‘50s and the ‘60s, the Filipino soldiers proved to the world that they were not only effective in restoring freedom in their own soil but were also capable of preserving freedom in foreign lands, when the Philippine government extended assistance to war torn countries.
Five-battalions were sent to compose the Philippine Expeditionary Forces to Korea (PEFTOK) to fulfill international commitment and at the same time to uphold the struggle for democracy. The country also sent a contingent called the Philippine Civic Action Group to Vietnam (PHILCAG) to support beleaguered South Vietnam.
Back at the homefront, the Filipino soldiers neutralized the Huk movement, and waged wars against the Moro National Liberation Front, the New People’s Army, the Moro Islamic Liberation
Front, the Abu Sayyaf Group and other lawless elements. The gallant Filipino soldiers gave their precious lives for their love of country. Even though outnumbered and outmatched, they valiantly fought with outstanding courage, steadfast, and conspicuous gallantry in every action against the enemies of the country. The soldiers’ heroism will always be remembered and it will forever remain in the hearts and minds of every Filipino. They never ran out of courage and the will to fight.
The country has a rich legacy of brave heroes, soldiers who shaped and made the country to what it is now. It is often said it is a foolish thing to fight an enemy who is superior in everything. But the Filipino soldiers gallantly stood their ground. That is why they are called heroes ready to defend the country’s sovereignty no matter what the consequences are, even if it would mean sacrificing their own lives. Their feat will always be told and re-told, it will pass from one generation to another.
The vividness of their heroism will not perish; it will forever live in the hearts of the people.
With a paradigm shift being adopted by the AFP in its newest campaign plan dubbed as the AFP Internal Peace and Security Plan, the soldiers are now committed to the “attainment of a quality and progressive life for the Filipino nation and its people” as a support to the thrust of the national government to promote peace and development. This paradigm shift calls for another brand of heroism where the soldiers’ goal is not only to defeat the enemy but also to win the peace and create an environment conducive for sustainable development and a just and lasting peace in partnership with other stakeholders of the society.
Like their predecessors, the soldiers must stand their ground. They will overcome as they give meaning to the lives of Filipino heroes paid in blood. At this present time, a new breed of heroes is emerging for their exemplary achievements in the field of nation-building and in risking their own lives in conducting rescue and relief operations during disasters. They exhibit another brand of courage in responding to crisis, disaster and calamities by saving the lives of people caught in the complexities of human lives and nature. Gallant soldiers who can stand for what they believe in; who can fight for what they feel is right even in the faces of dangers. Soldiers who will win the peace for the sake of development.
In recognizing their exemplary feat, the ATN editorial staff raises three rousing cheers for
Filipino heroes.

Editorial Board
LT GEN ARTURO B ORTIZ AFP
Commanding General
MGEN RENATO A DAVID AFP
Vice Commander
BGEN ROLANDO B TENEFRANCIA AFP
Chief of Staff
COL DONATO B SAN JUAN GSC (INF) PA
AC of S for Personnel, G1
COL PAOLO MA G MICIANO GSC (FA) PA
AC of S for Intelligence, G2
COL ANGELITO M DE LEON GSC (FA)PA
AC of for Operations, G3
Three Philippine Army personnel were awarded the prestigious title of The
Outstanding Philippine Soldiers (TOPS) 2011 in different fields of specialization launched by the Metrobank Foundation Inc., and the Rotary Club of Makati Metro. They are
Col Daniel A Lucero, 103 rd Infantry Brigade
Commander; CMS Billy C Benebili, CMOG
Command Sgt-Major; and, MSg Sixto P
Navarrosa, OG7, PA Chief Clerk.
The TOPS Award showcases the “Filipino soldiers’ courage, sacrifice, integrity, duty and service to the country.”
The Army TOPS awardees, together with other winners from the other AFP major services, received their medals of recognition from His Excellency President
Benigno S Aquino III in a ceremony held at
Malacanang Palace, August 26.
COL ROBERT M AREVALO GSC (QMS) PA
AC of for Logistics, G4
COL RODEL MAURO R ALARCON GSC (INF) PA
AC of S for Plans, G5
COL TEODORICO D RAQUEÑO MNSA (GSC) PA
AC of S for CEIS, G6
COL FRANCISCO L PABAYO GSC (INF) PA
AC of S for Civil-Military Operations, G7
COL ARNEL B DELA VEGA GSC (INF) PA
AC of S for Education and Training, G8
COL QUIRINO S CALONZO GSC (CAV) PA
AC of S for Reserve and Reservist Affairs, G9
COL ANTONIO G PARLADE JR GSC (INF) PA
Army Chief, Public Affairs
COL FELIMON T SANTOS JR FA (GSC) PA
Grp Cmdr, CMOG, PA
Editorial Staff
LTC WENEFREDO O ARCEÑO SR GSC (CE) PA
Editor-in-Chief
LYDIA V CABAJAR
Editorial Consultant
CPT ARBERN ROMMEL D ABIVA (FA) PA
Circulation Manager
CARINA C PASTRANO
Managing Editor
COL DANIEL A LUCERO INF (GSC) PA
COL EMMANUEL C MARTIN (FA) GSC PA
COL ALAN R ARROJADO INF (GSC) PA
CPT CELESTE FRANK L SAYSON (INF) PA
MAJ JIMMY V JIMENEZ (INF) PA
Contributors
SSG VICTOR F SAMONTE
SSG CELESTINO S BATALLA
PFC NOEL M BERNARDINO
PFC RAMON M MEGO
Photographers
CPL JUAN P RAYMUNDO
PFC MICHELLE R LLANDELAR
PFC MARYJANE C TABLIAGO
ABEGAIL A GARCIA
Layout Artists
2 | Rewarding The Best and Bravest of Our Philippine Soldiers
3 | The Philippine Army TOPS 2011 Awardees
5 | Mga Karaniwang Pilipino na Nagpapamalas ng Pambihirang
Serbisyo sa Bayan: Sundalo, Pulis, at Guro
10 | The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers (TOPS) 2011
13 | To Lead Lives of Dedication and Excellence
16 | Roster of Past Philippine Army TOPS Awardees
17 | IPSP: Steps to Attain our Shared Goal of Lasting and Sustainable
Peace
25 | Transforming the Army
27 | A Call for Improvements in the Infantry Corps
35 | OCD Administrator Rallies AFP and PA Against Disasters
41 | Special Service Unit: Innovating for Better Services
46 | The Filipino Spirit: Promoting Peace Beyond Philippine Borders
52 | CG PA Visits Troopers of 4 th Philippine Army Contingent to Golan Heights
54 | An Episode from the Filipino-American War
59 | Setting the Proper Mindset of Philippine Army Company
Commanders Towards Winning The Peace
63 | Philippine Army Provident Fund Incorporated
IBC | Consolidated Results of Performance Evaluation of Field Units
(Best-Best) for 2 nd Qtr, CY 2011
The Army Troopers Magazine is the official command publication of the Philippine Army. It is published quarterly by the Philippine Army through the Civil-Military
Operations Group, Fort Bonifacio, Makati City, Metro Manila 1201. It provides a forum for the open and honest exchange of ideas and concepts concerning the
Philippine Army. The articles published in the Army Troopers Magazine do not reflect the official view of the Philippine Army except when specifically stated. Though we do not accept responsibility for the opinions of the authors, we do accept responsibility for giving them the opportunity to be published. This publication is approved for public release. Official distribution is to units and offices of the Philippine Army, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Philippine government. For reproductions or re-publication, authority resides with the author. Requests can be forwarded directly to the author or through the Editor-in-chief who will make the necessary representation. The ATM reserves the right to edit the materials submitted. The Army Troopers Magazine accepts articles written either in English or Filipino.
Contributions and requests for information can be addressed to: The Editor-in-chief, Army Troopers Magazine, CMOG, PA, Fort Bonifacio, Makati City, MM1201.
ARMY TROOPERS MAGAZINE
| 1 |

The Philippine Army gives due recognitions and awards to military and civilian personnel who exceedingly gave their best in the performance of their individual functions. The giving of different recognitions and awards motivate these personnel to further surpass their level best to a level of excellence.
In 1994, the Metrobank Foundation Inc., and the Rotary Club of Makati Metro launched the search for The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers
(TOPS) to honor excellence among the men and women in the military as an expression of the civilian sector’s appreciation and gratitude for the soldiers’ selfless acts of gallantry in preserving the nation’s sovereignty. These two organizations joined together to cite the Outstanding Filipino soldiers. They have been reinforcing the people’s faith and confidence in soldiery through the TOPS.
From 1994 to date, the Philippine Army has
32 enlisted personnel and 21 commissioned officers who were declared as TOPS awardees.
The other two major services of the AFP, the
Philippine Navy and the Philippine Air Force, also have their own TOPS awardees.
The TOPS Award showcases the “Filipino soldiers’ courage, sacrifice, integrity, duty and service to the country.”
According to Dr George S. K. Ty, Metrobank
Foundation Inc. chairman, said TOPS awardees
“ are exemplary individuals who have decided to pursue a life of courage and gallantry, honor and
| 2 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028” integrity and selfless dedication to their sworn duties. By honoring their valuable service and accomplishments over the years, we would like them to serve as an inspiration to the rest of the community for them to similarly strive for the highest standards and excel in their respective endeavors.”
Similarly, Mr. Aniceto M. Sobrepeña,
Metrobank Foundation, Inc President, said “this year’s roster of awardees speaks of stories of heroism, gallantry, valor and innumerable years of dedication to their sworn duties. Aside from proving their excellence on the ground, they have also exhibited exemplary skills, leadership and patriotic zeal.”
In the same light, Mr. Godofredo R. Galindez,
Jr., Rotary Club of Makati Metro President, said
“This joint project gives due recognition to the accomplishment of the chosen awardees in the performance of their duties and in their overall conduct as a Filipino soldier. They have shown and distinguished themselves by their unselfish actions that demonstrate courage, integrity, technical knowledge and community service.”
For TOPS 2011, the Philippine Army winners include Col Daniel A Lucero, 103rd Infantry
Brigade Commander based at Kampo Ranao,
Lanao del Sur; MSgt Sixto P Navarrosa, Office of the Asst Chief of Staff for Civil-Military Operations
G7, Chief Clerk; and CMS Billy C Benebile, Civil-
Military Operations Group Command Sgt Major.

Colonel Daniel A. Lucero
Commander
103 rd Infantry Brigade, 1
Lanao del Sur st
Infantry Division, Kampo Ranao,
Specialization: Infantry and
Civil-Military Operations
Years in the Service: 28 years
He carried out effective information dissemination during the most challenging times of the AFP such as the election scandals and mutinies.
He successfully harmonized the multi-ethnic and multi-religion composition of his battalion which resulted to a stronger team that effectively responded to the enemy of the state and gained him the moniker, “Man of Peace.”
His advocay is bringing down the Christian-Muslim divide.
Master Sergeant Sixto P.
Navarrosa
Chief Clerk
Office of the Assistant Chief of
Staff for Civil-Military Operations,
G-7, Philippine Army, Fort
Bonifacio, Taguig City
Specialization:
Infantry and Civil-Military
Operations
Years in the Service: 24 years
As the member of the 18 th
Special Forces of the Army
Special Operations Command in conducting firefighting and rescue operations in Makati.
He also actively participated as member of Special Operations
Group that conducted test mission in rebel-infested area in Apayao which resulted to neutralization of
NPA members and recovery of several weapons. This earned him a Military Merit Medal with Bronze
Spearhead Device.
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 3 |

Chief Master Sergeant Billy C.
Benebile
Command Sergeant Major
Civil-Military Operations Group
(CMOG), PA, Fort Andres Bonifacio,
Taguig City
Specialization: Infantry
Years in the Service: 34 years
He led encounters in Negros
Island from insurgency from
1983 to 1995 and carried out public information drives that effectively countered propaganda campaigns against the government by the government by the CPP/NPA/NDF. He also led the group that rendered support and assistance in various medical and dental mission and humanitarian assistance.
Colonel Alexis D. Tamondong
Deputy Brigade Commander
54 th Engineer Brigade, Philippine
Army, Camp Tito Abat, Manaoag,
Pangasinan
Specialization:
Civil-Military Operations and Combat Engineering
Years in Service: 29 years
He initiated a new design for the construction of a 55- meter long hanging footbridge in Negros
Occidental utilizing environment friendly materials that permanently linked the isolated areas in Brgy. Himamaylan City, Negros. He also conducted 61 different medical and dental civic action programs in Negros and served as training officer and security platoon leader in several military operations.
| 4 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028”

Taun-taon, nagtitipon tayo kasama ang Metrobank Foundation at ang iba pang mga katuwang na ahensiya upang kilalanin ang mga karaniwang Pilipino na nagpapamalas ng pambihirang serbisyo sa bayan: ang mga kawal na buhay ang itinataya upang mapanatili ang soberanya ng Pilipinas; ang mga pulis na hinahanap at sinusugpo ang mga kriminal sa bansa; at ang mga gurong nagpapakita nang ‘di matatawarang dedikasyon upang hubugin at payabungin ang kaalaman ng kabataang Pilipino.
Sila po ang mga karaniwang Juan at Juana dela Cruz, tapat sa kanilang mga sinumpaang tungkulin, na kadalasan ay nababalewala at nakakaligtaan ng karamihan sa atin. Hindi sila naibabandera sa araw-araw na headlines; walang mga scoop tungkol sa kanilang mga mabubuting nagagawa sa prime time TV. Sa halip na mga ilaw at kamera, ang tanging saksi sa kanilang naiaambag sa lipunan ay ang mismong mga kababayan natin na kanilang araw-araw na natutulungan, naililigtas at kinakalinga.
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 5 |

Sila ang mga sundalo, pulis at gurong Pilipino - mulat sa bigat ng nakataang na responsibilidad na nakakabit sa kanilang pangalan - subalit hindi nag-aatubiling higitan pa ang inaasahan sa kanilang pagsisilbi sa bayan. Sila ang sumasalamin sa likas na sipag, katapatan, at kadakilaang taglay ng lahing kayumanggi - ang mga bayani ng panahong ito.
Sila ang mga pulis, sundalo at guro na kinikilala at pinaparangalan natin ngayon. Hayaan ninyong isaboses ko, sampu ng sambayanang Pilipino, ang taos-pusong pasasalamat sa inyo pong lahat.
Tiwala akong ang pagkilalang ito ay lalo pang magtutulak sa bawat isa sa inyo na magsikap upang higitan pa ang mga narating na ninyo ngayon, at magpatuloy sa pagiging inspirasyon sa inyong kapwa Pilipino. Kapag nadestino na kayong muli sa mga kampo; kapag nakaposte na kayong muli sa tanggapan o rumoronda sa kalsada; kapag nagtuturo na kayong muli sa silid-aralan, ang nais ko sanang bitbit ninyo sa inyong puso at isipan: “Katuwang ako ng pamahalaan sa landas ng matuwid na pagseserbisyo sa bayan, at nasa likod ko ang sambayanang Pilipino sa aking bawat hakbang.”
Ngayong tayo na ang naghuhulma sa direksyon ng bansa, ngayong tayo na ang naglalatag ng kaliwa’t kanang reporma sa ating pamahalaan, unti-unti na nating naaabot ang potensyal ng atin pong burukrasya. At upang mapabuti pa ang kalagayan ng ating kapulisan at kasundaluhan, tatlong aspeto po ang pinagtutuunan natin ng pansin. Una, ang pagpapalawig pa sa kanilang
Nagsama ang mga guro ng Signal Village National High School at mga kawal ng Civil-Military Operations Group , Philippine
Army sa pagsasagawa ng mga kaukulang aktibidades para sa National Schools Maintenance Week kaugnay ng Brigada
Eskwela.
| 6 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028”

kapasidad na magbigayserbisyo sa pamamagitan ng modernisasyon ng kanilang mga kagamitan at pagsasanay. Sa katunayan, nitong linggo lamang po, nasaksihan natin ang pagdaong ng BRP Gregorio del Pilar, ang kaunaunahang Hamilton Class
Cutter sa bansa. Parati ho namin sinasabi nang paulitulit na kauna-unahan dahil may inaasahan pa kaming darating niyan. Sisikapin din nating makakuha ng iba pang mga kagamitan at armas para sa ating Sandatahang
Ang pakikipagkoordinasyon at pakikipagkooperasyon ng militar sa iba’t ibang sektor ng lipunan ay nakapaglalapit ng organisasyon sa mga pribadong sektor tungo sa pagsasagawa ng mga proyektong pangkapayapaan at pangkaunlaran.
Lakas tulad ng Weather High
Endurance Cutters, Offshore Patrol Vessels, Long Range Patrol Aircrafts, Helicopters, Multi-Purpose
Attack Crafts, Air Defense Radars, at iba pang kagamitang pang-depensa. Pinapahiwatig po ng mga ito ang kahandaan nating pangalagaan, bantayan, at ipagtanggol ang interes at kapakanan ng ating bayan.
Pangalawa, ang pagpapataas ng kumpiyansa ng ating mga kawal, pulis, guro sa pamamagitan ng pabahay, benepisyo, at tulong-pinansyal. Mahigit 3,000 na po ang naipatayo nating tahanan para sa kanilang mga hanay. Dodoblehin pa po natin ang pagkayod upang maabot ang target nating 21, 800 tahanan bago matapos ang taong ito.
Pangatlo, ang pagsulong ng hayag at bukas na pamamalakad sa kani-kanilang mga ahensiya sa tulong ng Commission on Audit. Sisiguraduhin natin ang bawat pisong gagastusin para sa mga kagamitan at pasilidad ay talagang magiging kapaki-pakinabang sa taumbayan.
Sa tulong ni Education Secretary Armin Luistro, nagpapatupad na rin tayo ng mga inisyatibang magpapabuti sa kapakanan ng ating mga mahal na guro. Talagang maraming umaasa kay Secretary
Luistro ng Magandang Pasko. Mula sa Indefinite Sick Leave of Absence at Study Leave, hanggang sa Overtime Pay, may Hazard Pay pa pala at karagdagang kumpensasyon; mula sa patas na pasahod hanggang sa mga programang kumikilala sa mahuhusay na guro patuloy tayong magsasagawa ng mga hakbang na aagapay sa mga guro upang lalo pa nilang mapaghusay ang kanilang pagtuturo.
Tumutungo na po tayo sa posisyon kung saan tanaw na natin ang pagbabago. At kapag sinabi ko pong pagbabago, hindi lamang ito sa sistema at sa kagamitan sa gobyerno, pagbabago ito sa mentalidad at kaugalian ng mga namamahala
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 7 |

at ng mga mamamayang Pilipino. Ilang taon din tayong nagtiis sa makasariling pamamalakad; rindi na ang mga pandinig natin sa bisyong wang-wang ng iilang mapang-abuso sa lipunan.
Sa tuwid na daan, kapag sundalo ka, taas noo mong masasabi kahit kanino: “Ako ay isang sundalong Pilipino; ako ang tanod ng soberenya ng Pilipinas; ako ang pumipigil sa mga elementong nais gumambala sa aming bansa.”
Kapag bahagi ka ng kapulisan, maaari mong ipagmalaking: “Ako ay isang pulis na Pilipino; ako ang nagpapanatili ng kapayapaan sa lipunan, at tumitiyak sa kaligtasan ng mamamayan.”
Kapag isa kang guro, kaya mong ibandila sa buong mundo na: “Ako ay isang gurong Pilipino; ang gabay ng mga kabataan tungo sa kaunlaran, at ang nagpupunla ng magandang kinabukasan para sa ating bayan.”
Sa ilalim ng ating pamamahala, hindi na kulturang wang-wang ang mananaig sa lipunan; ang tanging mamamayani ay ang kultura ng pakikipag-kapwa, katapatan, at bayanihan. Magkakaiba man na tayo ng larangan at pinanggalingan, iisa ang ating ipinaglalaban: isang bansang mas ligtas, mas makatarungan, mas mapayapa, at mas maunlad.
Muli, binabati ko ang ating magigiting na kawal, pulis, at guro. Dahil sa inyo, napakasarap sabihing talaga naman tayo ay Pilipino.
Gusto ko lang ho pagdiinan sa okasyong na ito na talagang nabago na po natin at nababago na po natin ang ating lipunan. Kahapon po nilusob ng mga komunistang rebelde ang istasyon ng kapulisan sa Medina, Misamis Oriental.
Gusto ko pong ipahatid sa inyong lahat na talaga naman pong nanindigan ang ating kapulisan doon at ang dagdag pa ho diyan ang bilis pong dumating ng mga reinforcement mula sa AFP at sa PNP, naitaboy po ang mga taong gustong maghasik ng lagim sa Medina, Misamis
Oriental. Congratulations po!
Inaasahan ng mga mamamayan ang mga tulong na nagmumula sa militar lalo na sa panahon ng kagipitan tulad ng nasa larawan kung saan ang Hukbong Katihan ng Pilipinas ay nagkaloob ng libreng sakay.
Tatandaan lang po ninyo pag guerrilla warfare namimili ng oras, ng sandali at iniipon ang kanilang pwersa.
Ang atin pong mga tanod ng kapayapaan ay permanenteng nakatalaga doon, sila po ay kailangan handa sa lahat ng oras at
| 8 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028”

ipinakita at ipinamalas kung ano ang serbisyo ng kapulisank a s u n d a l u h a n g
Pilipino.
Nais ko pa rin pong ibigay parangal, kagabi po ay may hostage crisis sa
San Jose, Antique.
Naresolba po within about four or five hours.
Katuwang ng Kagawaran ng Edukasyon ang Hukbong Katihan ng Pilipinas sa pagpupunla ng
Ang kaisa-isa pong napinsala ay noong initial na takeover nitong preso sa San Jose BJMP facility, naresolba po na walang dagdag na nasaktan. Again apat na oras o limang oras lang po naresolba nang mapayapa itong krisis sa San Jose, Antique. Tanda na naman ng kakayahan ng atin pong mga kawani ng seguridad ng ating bansa.
At sa pagtatapos po, kahapon kausap ko po itong mga estudyanteng nanalo sa Math
Olympiad. Nakalimutan ko po yung pangalan ng competition, parang tatlo ho ang pinadala natin, lahat sila may bronze na medal. Ngayon po nagkaroon ng ranking at doon po ako’y natuto ng panibago. Diyan ho pala sa mga competition pag nira-rank kayo merong points sa bawat kinatawan niyo na itinatalaga para sa inyong bansa. Ang problema po natin yung tatlong pinadala natin yung mga kalaban anim ang ipinadala. Kaya nung nag multiply times six sa kanila, tayo times three.
Dulo po noon mas magaling raw yung math nila sa math natin. Sabi ko naman po doon sa mga estudyante at saka sa mga tumutulong sa kanilang naging trainor dito sa mga competition na ito ay talagang dapat naman kayong tulungan ng estado. Alam po ninyo tapos yung trabaho ng kanilang mga guro ay talagang idineboto ang kanilang mga oras para hubugin itong mga estudyanteng ito at talaga naman pong ang gandang ipagmalaki. Aba! pati sa Math Olympiad nakakaporma na ang
Pilipinas.
Sa inyo pong halimbawang nagawa na, sa inaasahan nating ipapakita ninyong gilas sa mga darating na araw talaga naman pong wala tayong patutunguhan kundi paangat ng paangat para sa atin pong Inang Bansa.
Magandang hapon. Maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat.
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 9 |

T
O
P
S
T he Search for TOPS is an annual project of the Metrobank Foundation, Inc. and the Rotary
Club of Makati Metro. The Metrobank Foundation is the corporate social responsibility arm of the Metrobank Group of Companies. Over the years, it has promoted a culture of excellence among
Filipinos through its various programs notably the Search for Outstanding
Teachers, the Metrobank Art and
Design Excellence, The Outstanding
Philippine Soldiers, Country’s
Outstanding Policemen in Service, the Metrobank Math Challenge, and
College Scholarship Program. The
Foundation also has grants program that assists NGOs and government in the fields of education, healthcare, and the arts. Metrobank Foundation celebrates Filipino excellence and presents wellsprings of hope in the future of our nation.
The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers is an annual Search jointly undertaken by the Rotary Club of Makati
Metro and the Metrobank Foundation, Inc. The Search is the realization of the shared conviction of the
RCMM and the MBFI to honor excellence among the men and women in the military as an expression of the civilian sector’s appreciation and gratitude for our soldiers’ selfless acts of gallantry in preserving our nation’s sovereignty.
In many respects, the current T.O.P.S. is a fusion of the rich experience of the RCMM in conducting an annual search for outstanding soldiers since 1994 and the long tradition of technical and logistical expertise of the MBFI in conducting the Search for Outstanding Teachers for more than twenty years. Whereas before, the Search focused on individual achievements within a single year in particular areas of expertise such as
Combat, Technical Innovation and Community Service, T.O.P.S. now recognizes the total contribution of our soldiers during the entirety of their career in the military. Thus, winning in T.O.P.S. sets apart the awardees from ordinary soldiers as they serve as models of excellence, professionalism, integrity and nobility in the military services. As a distinguished batch, the winners do not anymore compete with their colleagues in future searches.
Two Enlisted Personnel and one Commissioned Officer from each of the three military branches, namely the Philippine Army, the Philippine Navy and the Philippine Air Force, will be selected as winners. One winner will also be declared from the Technical Support Group of the military, i.e. the medical corps, the corps of professors and the Judge Advocate Group Office. The T.O.P.S. is supported through a ten-million endowment fund set up by Metrobank and Metrobank Foundation Chairman George S. K. Ty in 1999.
| 10 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028”

1. Who can join and win in the competition?
The competition is open to all Officers with a rank of Captain up to Colonel and Enlisted
Personnel who have actively served in the AFP for the last seven years. The nominee must also meet the following criteria: 1) Must be of good moral character; 2) Must not have been charged under a criminal information pending in court or must not have a pending administrative charge given due course by any government administrative body; and, 3) Must not have been adjudged guilty/liable in any administrative or criminal case.
For the Commissioned Officer category, if the nominee is previously an Enlisted Personnel promoted to a Commissioned Officer, he/she should have served as a Commissioned Officer for at least (2) years to be eligible. For the Non-Commissioned Officer category, the nominee must not have been promoted to a rank of a Commissioned Officer until after the Final Judging Phase.
One officer and two Enlisted Personnel coming from each of the three major branches of the AFP namely Philippine Army, Philippine Air Force and the Philippine Navy may win in the competition.
Nominee should not be due for any schooling abroad within six months upon the submission of their nomination form and supporting documents.
2. What prizes will the winners receive?
Each awardee will receive a cash prize of Php
300,000 and a trophy courtesy of the Metrobank
Foundation. The non-winning finalists, aside from a certificate, shall receive the amount of Php
20,000 as financial incentive, also courtesy of the
Metrobank Foundation.
3. Who can nominate?
Any of the following can nominate to the competition:
Army: Commanding General, Division
Commander, Brigadier Commander, Battalion
Commander, Company Commander
Philippine Navy : Flag Officer-in-Command;
Commander,WW Philippine Fleet; Commandant,
Philippine Marines; Commander, Naval Forces;
Other Major Unit Commanders
Philippine Air Force: Commanding General, Major and Separate Unit Commanders
2. Soldiers who wish to join the competition need to secure the signature of any of the above nominator.
4. How can one join?
Nomination forms are available at the Office of the J-1, AFP General Headquarters, all AFP Major
Service Headquarters, and their major units. The forms are also available in all Metrobank Branches nationwide. The forms can also be downloaded from the Metrobank Foundation website: http:// www.mbfoundation.org.ph
or at the AFP website http://www.afp.mil.ph
.
The accomplished nomination form as well as the accompanying documents of Major Services and Corps of Engineers should be submitted to their respective Major Service Selection
Committee Secretariat. The nominee shall submit seven (7) copies of the nomination forms as well as the documentary requirements with the latest
2x2 photo of the nominee in seven separate folders. All required supporting documents should be on A4 bond paper (8.27” x 11.69”). The required packaging of the documents is indicated on the Guidelines in Preparing the Required
Documents.
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 11 |

5. What clearances are required?
The nominee should secure clearances from the following: a) all pertinent AFP bodies (i.e. Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, J2, Inspector
General, Provost Marshall, Office of Ethical Standards and Public Accountability), b) Commission on Human Rights and c) Office of the Ombudsman
The nominee needs to submit only one copy of all the clearances. Said clearances should be submitted together with required documents.
6. Can a retired soldier join? Can one nominate a dead soldier?
No. The competition seeks to raise models of excellence within the AFP which other soldiers could emulate. The organizers also seek to restore public confidence back to the AFP. As such the organizers are looking for soldiers who are still active in the service and who could serve as examples within the AFP.
7. Can non-winning nominees/finalists join the competition again?
Yes. Nominees are encouraged to join again in the next cycle of the Search. However, soldiers who made it to the final phase for two consecutive years but did not win should have a rest year before he/she can join again. If the nominee has been a finalist the third time, he/she shall be requested to rest for two (2) years before he/she becomes eligible to join again.
8. What if the winner, after the awarding, committed acts in violation of the law and constitution?
Winners should continue to be active and serve as a model soldier even after winning the competition. If in case after the competition, the military institution would deem that a winner would prove unworthy as a model of excellence, his/her name would be removed from the roster of awardees.
Should there be any other questions, please contact Hero Hernandez or
Guada Ramos of Metrobank Foundation at
(63-2) 857-5525/8185656/0926-
6951186; email hshernandez@ metrobank.com.ph. and foundation@ metrobank.com.ph.
| 12 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028”

(Remarks of Colonel Daniel A Lucero PA on behalf of The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers (TOPS) 2011, the
Country’s Outstanding Policemen in Service (COPS) 2011, the Search for Outstanding Teachers (SOT) 2011 awarded by the Metrobank Foundation, Metrobank Plaza, 05 September 2011)
To be called a “Hero of Nation-Building” is one of the best, if not the best accolade that any soldier, policeman, or teacher can receive in his/ her lifetime. This may sound naïve, but I think you will agree with me that many of us enter our selected profession oblivious to the notion, that we, too, would be praised and affirmed by others as living models of modern-day heroism, and actually live to hear it ourselves.
In the carefree days of my exuberant youth, being a hero meant you didn’t live long enough to know you have been declared one, or that being a hero meant a life of constant hardship, struggle, and sacrifice. After all, it is in the most difficult and challenging circumstances that bring out the best in all of us.
I stand before you greatly humbled and yet imbued with a deep sense of pride for having been chosen as an outstanding soldier of the
Philippines for 2011, and for being given the rare privilege of delivering a message on behalf of the other awardees.
“Heroes of Nation-Building,” this year’s theme for the TOPS is not only apt for us soldier awardees, but equally fitting for this year’s outstanding policemen, chosen for their exceptional work in and with the community in crime prevention and resolution; and this year’s outstanding teachers who have been selected not only for being models of excellence in education but also as exemplary community members and enablers.
This notion was reinforced when, as a young soldier, I witnessed the profound grief and irreplaceable loss of a spouse, of a child, and of a parent of soldiers whose lives were cut short in defense of our democratic way of life; and of policemen and women, whose lives were sacrificed in securing our peaceful and productive existence against criminality.
While the teaching profession may not have snuffed out as many lives in the tragic ways that have become a way of life for soldiers and for those in the police force, “death”- in quotation marks - comes in another way. It sometimes comes in the death of the belief that our chosen profession is the road towards a financiallyrewarding career. But despite this rude awakening, we see many dedicated teachers whose hardship and sacrifice are manifested in walking kilometers to be with their students in the remotest areas of the countryside, or those
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 13 |

who handle close to a hundred students per class, deftly juggling meager resources to lead a nation out of ignorance and illiteracy.
But if there is anything that every soldier, policeman, and teacher knows, is this… the calling of true service and the opportunity to make a REAL difference in the lives of REAL people amidst REAL difficulties and challenges, is far more compelling than any financial or economic reward available. Seeing our efforts bear fruit among the people whose lives we have sworn to serve is reward enough.
It is for this reason that the awardees this year have made the conscious effort and oftentimes difficult decision to continue to serve the country with dedication and excellence despite the persistent adversities in the field, and in spite of the continued temptations of greener pastures and opportunities here and abroad.
I would also like to thank the many people whose presence in our lives have helped us evolve and become the public servants and awardees that we are today.
Thus, for the gesture of honoring living heroes of nation-building and for publicly recognizing and rewarding the exemplary acts of courage, dedication, innovation, and selflessness of the
Filipino soldier, policeman, and teacher, allow me to convey, on behalf of all the awardees this year, our most profound and deepest gratitude to the Metrobank Foundation,
Inc., and its partners, the Rotary
Clubs of Makati Metro and New
Manila East, the AFP, PNP,
DepEd, and CHED.
To our parents, many of whom are no longer here to share this honor with us, thank you for being our first models of self-sacrifice, unconditional love, and support. Thank you for showing us that doing good is reward in itself.
To our spouses and children, thank for your constant understanding, life-changing tenderness, boundless affection, and for
Thank you for starting and sustaining this yearly tradition that has now become a source of inspiration not only for those in the service but to the Filipino nation. The award is a stamp of confidence that the military, the police, and teaching forces are not just bastions of a few good men and women, but are, in fact, breeding grounds for numerous dedicated, committed - albeit silent and reticent - heroes and heroines.
Col Daniel A Lucero, 103rd Infantry Brigade commander, addresses his audience during the
Quran reading contest at Tamparan, Lanao del Sur where he was the guest of honor and speaker.
| 14 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028”

timely reminder, in the form of this award, that good deeds do not go unnoticed. That if we just do our work in the best way possible, without any conscious anticipation of reward or recompense, You Almighty One, always find a way to recognize and affirm us in moments when we need it the most. Thank you for lifting our tired souls and battle-weary bodies through the wonderful people that surround us today and every day.
Here, the TOPS awardee was the special guest during the enthronement of a Sultan of Taraka, Lanao del Sur.
the patience in being willing to live within the paycheck of a soldier, a policeman and a teacher so that we, your awardees, can do our work with the highest integrity. To our siblings, friends, and supporters, thank you for being constant sources of inspiration through your generosity, loyalty, kindness, and dependability through the years.
Compared to our teacher colleagues, we, your soldiers and policemen, are admittedly not known for our eloquence. I am hoping however, that through awards like these, we are able to demonstrate that there can be no greater eloquence than in our continued, conscious, and purposive actions that strengthen our nation’s integrity, prosperity, and sovereignty; in actions
To our fellow soldiers, policemen, and teachers in the field, both living and those who have gone before us, your company in uncertain battlefields, in difficult missions, and in challenging classrooms has shown us the certainty of your support and the steadfastness of your presence. Our bonds at work go deeper than blood relations. You are our communities of strength where resides kindred souls that sustains us all. that empower the poor, that reaches out to the marginalized and secures the vulnerable.
Let me thank all of you once again for choosing us as your awardees this year. This award will further inspire us to always let our actions speak louder than words, to lead lives of dedicated service and excellence, and to continue to move those around us to become active participants in the continuing work of nation-building. To our commanders and mentors, past and present, thank you for teaching us what it takes to be true servant-leaders and for inspiring us to go beyond ourselves.
To the Filipino people, for surviving a turbulent history, we take inspiration from your collective resilience and unsinkable sense of hope.
We stand before you today proud to be part of the Filipino people’s outstanding soldiers, policemen, and teachers for 2011; prouder still that you have affirmed and hailed us as your partners and heroes of nation-building. We will not fail you.
And finally, to the Almighty and Infinite Power who sees all and knows all, thank you for the Good afternoon and mabuhay tayong lahat.
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 15 |

2002*
2000
1999
1998
1997
1996
Year
2010
Enlisted Personnel
MSg Ruben N Lucero
MSg Hercules L Regis
Msg Romeo H Jandugan 2009
2008 SSg Rodel E Bonifacio
MSg Reynaldo D Garcia
2007-2006 MSg Blas L Fernandez
MSg Roselito T Tayros
2005 SMS Fidel A Alegre Jr
MSg Guillermo P Francisco
2004
2003
Commissioned Officer
Col Melquiades L Feliciano
Lt Col Lope C Dagoy
Col Joselito E Kakilala
Lt Col Carlito T Galvez Jr.
Lt Col Arnulfo J Marcos
CMS Renato T De Los Santos Cpt Harold M Cabunoc
TSg Ludie R Donque
MSg Paulino G Bala
MSg Ramon V Padrilanan
Col William S Campos
COMBAT
Sgt Benedicto S Enriquez
Cpl Orlando Acobera
1995
1994
SSg Andrew V Lim
SSg Ferdinand F Morgado
Cpl Vicente N Ramis
Sgt Miguel S Soriano
TSg John A Jally
Cpt Catalino L Masa Jr
2Lt Herbert D Dilag
Cpt Rodolfo A Gesim
Maj Medardo P Geslani
2Lt Rufino L de Leon
Cpt Robert Eduardo M
Lucero(+)
Cpt Cenito E Sobejana
COMMUNITY SERVICE
2002* MSg Jose S Uyeg
2000 SSg Proceso A Budiogan
SSg Leandro M Judan 1999
1998
1996 SSg Arnold B Ablao
1995
1994 TSg Rolando M Tabuniar
Lt Col Fredesvindo L Covarrubias
Lt Col Pedro Ramon I Sinajon
Cpt Johnny L Macanas
Cpt Danilo D Balandra
Lt Col Antonio V Inciong
1999
1998
1997
1996
1994
1998
1994
Excellence in a Career and Exemplary Leadership (EXCEL)*
SSg Alexander B Sabado
LEADERSHIP
CMS Rogelio C Layos
MSg Ferdinand T Martine
MSg Samuel M Antonio
MSg Joel I Trompeta
Technical Service
Maj Samuel M Antonio
TSg Antonio P Bote
*As a transition, in 2002, the Metrobank Foundation and
Rotary Club of Makati Metro instituted the Excellence in Career and Exemplary Leadership (EXCEL) Award slots. The EXCEL award recognized the soldier’s exemplary career.
Last year TOPS 2010 awardees pose for a souvenir shot after the awarding rites at Malacanang Palace.
| 16 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028”

(The following questions were sent to General Eduardo SL Oban, AFP Chief of Staff, for a scheduled interview by the Army Troopers Magazine editorial staff. However, his schedules were so hectic, his answers came via the e-mail.)
1. nation approach or the people-centered security of the AFP IPSP? What have we done so far to implement these approaches?

How do we concretize the whole-of-
Since the military is aware that full cooperation of all sectors in society will largely contribute to the achievement of goals, the
Armed Forces is motivated to incorporate the participation of the stakeholders as we go through plan formulation to plan implementation. Both government and nongovernment stakeholders possess complementing strengths that are indispensable in attaining the goals of AFP IPSP.
government agencies, among a long list of others, assist the AFP as we implement the IPSP. Their designated tasks and their utmost cooperation to our goals have direct impact on how we deliver our duties. Equally important is the role played by local government units (LGUs), the Philippine
National Police, nongovernment organizations, civil society organizations, members from the academe, and the entire Filipino citizenry. People will soon realize how imperative the role is of nongovernment organizations as they assist us in our engagements and activities. The academe strengthens our inputs by reviewing them and adding their own inputs to improve what we have come up. Vigilant and ever-participative citizens help us determine the problems and issues we are not aware of.
 National government agencies and the role they play directly impinge on internal peace and security. The Department of the Interior and
Local Government (DILG) ensures transparent and accountable local governance. The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process
(OPAPP) facilitates the peace negotiations with armed ideological groups. The Commission on
Human Rights (CHR) gives primacy to human rights and international humanitarian law. These
 In the last year, the AFP was able to reduce the Communist-Terrorist Movement’s strength of at least 13% or 591 personalities out of the 4, 702 in 2009 which is attributed to a good number of surrendering rebels. It can also be noted that the AFP and the CPP/NPA/
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 17 |

There is a need for interagency relationship between the government and other stakeholders of the society for the IPSP to gain grounds. Here, Philippine Army soldiers provide assistance to ABS-CBN Foundation in distributing relief goods to typhoon victims.
NDF are working out peace talk agreement at the moment which is aimed to give a stop to the over decades-old peace concerns.
in nature concerning affected sectors of communities through stakeholder collaboration.
 For the past two quarters of 2011, we are proud to say that our new peace and security plan has helped us initiate various activities that are important to our steps to attaining our shared goal of lasting and sustainable peace.
2. How can the Armed Forces let the people feel these approaches and persuade them in their favor?
 There is the establishment of the Joint
Peace and Security Coordinating Center or the
JPSCC at the regional and provincial levels to serve as springboard for peace and security convergence efforts.

Engagements which is more equally responsive to the necessities of military operations and the paramount consideration on the safety of the civilians.

We have implemented the revised Rules of
Finally, we have revived the Special
Operations Team into Peace and Development
Team (PDT) Concept which is focused on the resolution of issues which are mainly agrarian
 For the people to get the idea of how we implement these approaches, it is necessary for them to understand the interagency relationships existing between government bodies, NGOs, LGUs, civil society organizations, and the academe. These stakeholders are composed of a wide range of members that can speak of the genuine connection binding all the stakeholders. Peace and security are things that require the support of all sectors in society. And through this, the people will realize that with joint effort and mutual cooperation, our goals are easier and not impossible to obtain. The general public must realize how important joint cooperation is.
The bureaucratic relationship and assistance existing between government bodies comprise the lifeblood of any organization.
| 18 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028”

 The people will feel the effectiveness of implementing these approaches since our activities manifest that without our close coordination with stakeholders, we cannot make them happen. The best we can do is to ensure that with other government agencies’ assistance, we deliver our services more efficiently. People-centered approach is felt and seen by people since its general aim is to put people’s welfare at the center of military operations. This approach is apparent in the activities we undertake like increased vigilance after Osama bin laden’s death.
Whole-of-nation approach, on the other hand, is translated as the AFP stays in touch and works together with all agencies and sectors of society.
improve our service delivery and the execution of our plans. For example, the reforms we adopt are part and parcel of the effort of the
Department of Budget and Management and the Department of National Defense in trying to prevent corruption issues from happening again. They have assisted us in crafting our reforms and this can be perceived as strength of the Armed Forces. Another area of strength is the cooperation of AFP with international and local organizations in translating international humanitarian laws and human rights in all the endeavors of our military personnel. At present, the AFP Human Rights
Office involves the participation of NGOs and government bodies such as the Commission on Human Rights, Presidential Human Rights
Committee, Sulong CARHRIHL, and other human rights-based organizations. Improved service delivery through coordination of all stakeholders is the implication of this strength.
 The AFP units strictly adhere to the principles, concepts, provisions and spirit of the Human Rights, IHL and the Rule of
Law. These shall not be only advocated but internalized by all military personnel, in terms of doctrine, techniques, procedures and operations.
 The weakness would be the indifference and lack of cooperation and support from all other agencies that we regard as imperative in executing all our activities. Without their presence, we will not be able to translate
3. What are the strengths and the weaknesses you can perceive in implementing these approaches?
What could be the implications, if there are any, in the implementation of these approaches?
 The strengths that we can see upon the adoption of the two approaches is the good relationship and constant communication and integration with government agencies
Army soldiers endear themselves to Muslim children in one of the MEDCAP activities launched in Muslim communities
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 19 |

into action all our goals and objectives as the military. That is why it has been very important for us to keep close coordination with all these stakeholders since they are very responsive in terms of offering their support and recommendations.
4. How could we simplify the whole-ofnation approach and the people-centered security approach in order for an ordinary soldier to easily understand the concept?
 Whole-of-nation approach
As soldiers we know for a fact that pure military solution remains inadequate to address the security concerns of the country. That is why in our implementation of the IPSP “Bayanihan”, we are now hinged into success with the involvement of all stakeholders in the IPSP.
The comprehensive definition of security, which we are primarily confronting, entails a multi-faceted and multi-pronged approach.
Meaning, in all our undertakings, there should be a multi-stakeholder effort through our partnership with different government institutions, nongovernment stakeholders such as NGOs and Civil Society Organizations, and the local communities.
We are removing the notion that it will only be us the AFP that will solve the security concerns of the country. We will serve as a catalyser so that the there will be synergy of effort from among stakeholders.
As soldiers applying the whole-ofnation approach, we will encourage ordinary citizens and the entire Filipino nation as active contributors to internal peace and security.
This is not just about burden sharing. We will make sure that government institutions and the civil society and the communalities are with us in confronting our security concerns.
People centered security approach
The Philippine Army, together Philippine Navy and Philippine National Police, participates in the 2011 Public Governance Forum last 30 March 2011.
While we are trained to look for the enemy, whenever we enter a community, the question that we should have in mind is that: “How will I be able to protect the civilians in this community?” rather than asking the question: “How do I defeat the enemy?” because we should understand that in human security operations, which we are primarily conducting, the protection of civilians, not defeating an enemy, is an end in itself.
| 20 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028”

However, this does not mean that we will not conduct combat operations anymore.
Whenever deemed necessary the AFP shall still apply the legitimate use of force. Now, remembering our people-centered approach, our military operations shall focus only on the armed components only of insurgent groups.
These shall be conducted with zero tolerance for collateral damage and must complement the efforts
Multi-Sectoral Advisory Board Meeting attended by Ms. Solita Monsod, Dr Jesus
Estanislao, Atty Alex Lacson, Ms. Samira Gutoc, LtGen Arturo B Ortiz AFP, and other Army officers.
of other stakeholders in addressing the roots of the conflict. Moreover, military operations shall be conducted within the ambit of the government’s broader peace framework and shall seek to complement the initiatives of civilian authorities in addressing the root causes of conflict.
Armed Forces. We have identified 18 financial and logistical flaws covering the major points: logistics, finance, personnel, training and discipline, law and order. After the identification of the flaws, we went to conducting workshops in order to extract other useful ideas from our technical working groups which participated in
With the Filipino People, we will be
“winning the peace” rather than looking for the enemy. This is a paradigm shift on how the AFP views its mandate of protecting the people and the state, a shift from a predominantly militaristic solution to a peoplecentered security strategy.
our Financial and Logistics Summit in March and April. We conducted a series of vigorous workshops which resulted to action plans addressing the most important concerns. The
AFP Financial and Logistical Reform Program
(AFP FLRP) is the product of the recently 5-6. What are the reforms that you have initiated especially in the wake of Rabusa expose and President Aquino’s memo to him on financial management and internal controls? What are the results of the summit on financial control attended by the AFP and
DBM?
concluded summit. From the collective effort of internal stakeholders, the reform program will serve as the blueprint for improving the military’s resource management systems composed of the following major action plans:
 The improvement of:
 72-100 Revolving Fund Utilization
 The reforms we are currently undertaking primarily began with the identification of flaws in the way our resources are being used and managed by various officers. Because of the corruption incidents of the past, determination grew out of with the drive of altering the common and popular perception about the



AFP Bids and Awards Committee;
AFP Logistics Organization Structure;
Disposal Program for Unserviceable
Equipment; and
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 21 |

 Procurement Planning and Programming a. The implementation of the following proposals:
 Lease-to-own scheme;
 AFP Purchase Card System;
 Logistics Support and Ordering
Agreement; b. The Reconciliation of the Supply
Accountable Office (SAO) and Accounting
Books
 We have also initiated the capability build-up of the AFP’s Procurement Service covering personnel, training, and automation.
Towards this end, our initial efforts have resulted to personnel fill-up in our procurement service from 75% to 81% since
I began my term. We are currently beefing up our civilian workforce which is currently standing at only 58%. Consequently, trainings on managing the procurement function and computer literacy were also conducted among procurement service personnel to prepare for AFP’s procurement processes, a project being undertaken by our logistics and information management specialists.
 We also have put an end to conversion.
Up to now, we continue to stand firm behind this policy while our proposal for a command and management allowance is undergoing review. We have also made frequent internal audits and performed them randomly to ensure accountability at every office in AFP. Since my assumption, we have conducted three major internal audits: one terminal audit, one system/financial audit of trust receipts; and, a special / unprogrammed audit on alleged conversion of funds.
7. What have we achieved so far in our
IPSP?
 In our efforts against armed threat groups from 01 January to 21 June 2011:
| 22 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028” a. We have reduced the NPA strength by 323 with 166 surrenderors facilitated through joint peace efforts of the AFP/PNP, LGUs, and other agencies. Focused military operations also yielded a total of 138 firearms recovered as a result of surrenders, discoveries of arms cache and combat losses.
Nr of Armed Engagements
Nr of Surrenderors
Nr of Neutralized
Nr of FAs Gained
Nr of Guerrilla Attacks against Gov’t troops/Civilian Population
Total
142
166
157
138
109 b. c.
As regards the MILF , we continue to maintain a credible deterrent posture geared towards containing the MILF while supporting the primacy of the peace process. The absence of major hostilities between our forces and the MILF significantly contributes to the prospects of the peace process.
Focused military operations are limited in nature and barely enough to hold the rebels from expanding their sphere of influence and committing criminal and terrorist activities. For the period, a total of 27 armed engagements transpired, resulting in the neutralization of six armed MILF members.
The AFP’s counter-terrorism drive is centered on the defeat of the ASG by isolating its cells from foreign terrorist organizations, other internal threat groups, and mass based support.
The AFP applies intelligence-driven combat operations to decimate the armed elements. For the period, the
AFP initiated 12 armed engagements against the terrorist group resulting in the neutralization of 19 ASG elements. The downtrend in the

Reaching out to the youth sector via Youth Leadership Summit.
number of violence perpetrated by the terrorist group translates to a gradual improvement in the peace and security situation in the SULBAT area.
Peace and Development Teams, that are focused on the resolution of issues which are mainly agrarian in nature concerning affected sectors of communities through stakeholder collaboration.
 Internally, we have published supporting policies in the implementation of IPSP
Bayanihan. We are also currently reviewing existing policies and doctrines to ensure that these are responsive to IPSP Bayanihan.
a. b. c.
Rules of Engagement for IPSP – ensures that the ROE is equally responsive to the necessities of military operations and the paramount consideration on the safety of civilians.
IPSP Assessment Plan – is a tool to systematically evaluate the progress and effectiveness of IPSP.
 We are also conducting a joint study project with the Ateneo De Manila University and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on
Peace Process. The purpose of the study is to gauge the operational capacity of the AFP in implementing the IPSP and to analyze the security stakeholders’ perception and willingness to engage the AFP vis-à-vis the IPSP. The project will run from June to November of this year.
Peace and Development Team
Handbook (Module 1: Farmers Sector) – this recasts the AFP SOT Operations into
 We are also continuously conducting advocacy drives to AFP personnel and other stakeholders in order to form a peace constituency, which holds a shared understanding of peace and security.
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 23 |

8. What is our Way Ahead?
 We seek to contribute in the strengthening of the Joint Peace and Security Coordinating
Councils and the Peace and Order Councils.
Mechanisms that facilitate the coordination and integration of efforts, such as the JPSCC and
POC, must be in place and functioning.
 We also seek to build a peace constituency.
The active support and involvement of the populace in peace initiatives will exert social pressure both on the side of the government and of the insurgents to reach a negotiated political settlement that will end armed conflict.
 We also hope to provide assistance in government support programs such as developmental projects for conflict-affected areas which can also go a long way in showing to the people the government’s sincerity to address quality-of-life issues. Rebel integration programs, on the other hand, manifest the government’s sincerity in extending a hand of peace to those who chose to take up arms.
 IPSP Bayanihan requires a high level of organizational efficiency and, at the same time, established and institutionalized engagements with our peace partners in the public and private sectors. We must prove ourselves worthy of their trust and cooperation. To do so, we must undergo our own sincere reform efforts. We must develop the necessary capabilities to perform our mission, professionalize our ranks, and institutionalize the involvement of stakeholders in AFP initiatives. By undertaking the necessary reforms, we not only stand to increase our institutional efficiency but it also enables us to take the moral high ground in our fight against armed threats to internal peace and security.
Providing primary health care activities like the conduct of Medcap activities can go a long way in showing to the people the government’s sincerity to address quality- of- life issues.
| 24 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028”

• Solita Collas-Monsod
(Published in her Get Real column, Philippine Daily Inquirer, dated 10 September 2011)
The Philippine Army has a new face—and a new body to match. Either that or it had me completely fooled for two days, and pulled the wool over the eyes of the likes of
Jess Estanislao, Alex Lacson and Samilra Tomawis as well.
The four of us are part of the nine-member Philippine Army
Multi-Sector Advisory Board
(MSAB).
The MSAB is part of the
Army’s face-lifting, bodybuilding process. It had its inaugural session only six weeks ago. But its initial working session was held at
Fort Magsaysay yesterday
(Friday), and that’s where I got almost literally bowled over.
Lt Gen Arturo B Ortiz, Philippine Army Commanding General, discusses matters of mutual interest with MSAB members.
The camp was the first eye-opener. Time was when it went by the nickname
“Fort Magsisi” (given by the soldiers themselves) because if you were assigned there, magsisisi ka (you will regret it). Well, I saw the
46,000-hectare (it used to be
70,000 but got “encroached”)
Fort Magsaysay for the first time on Thursday, and it had tiled roofs, paved roads, landscaped gardens, and topgrade facilities for the officers and enlisted men of the Special
Operations Command and the
Seventh Infantry Division.
I wasn’t the only one impressed. US officers who went there recently for the
Balikatan training exercises apparently couldn’t believe that they were in the same camp that they had been in for previous exercises.
Apparently Commanding
General Arturo Ortiz, who has that they can pick off targets up to 1.2 kilometers away? I saw them do it.
the reputation of improving the surrounding infrastructure wherever he is assigned, was the one who started the ball rolling at Fort Magsaysay.
It certainly beats Camps
Aguinaldo and Crame.
After our meeting on
Thursday, the MSAB was treated to “Capability
Demonstrations”—and that was another eye-opener. Do you know that the Army has snipers of so high a caliber
And they had their version of William Tell. Remember the story of the marksman who was forced to prove his prowess by shooting at an apple perched on his own son’s head? Well, in this modern version, one sniper stood with two balloons on either side of him filled with red-colored water, while his sniper buddy, from 25 meters away, shot at the balloons and burst them. I kid you not. Then the buddies changed places, so that the buddy holding the target balloons was now the shooter. How about that for a confidence-building exercise?
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 25 |

Members of the MSAB inspect the military hardwares on exhibit during the capability demonstration at Fort Magsaysay.
There were other capability demonstrations which unfortunately I cannot write about for security reasons.
But I can assure you that they boosted my confidence in the Philippine Army and its capabilities. The image of a fumbling, bumbling, inept organization is definitely gone.
there were indicators galore that would allow an objective assessment of whether the roadmap was indeed being followed, with scorecards for all levels, from the top
(the commanding general) to the bottom (the company commander).
But the best is yet to come.
The main purpose of our visit to
Fort Magsaysay and our MSAB
“introductory working session” was for us to be brought up to speed and get our feedback on the “Army Transformation
Roadmap” (ATR). The ATR is an ambitious, 18-year strategic plan whose ultimate objective is to convert the
Philippine Army into “A World-
Class Army That Is A Source of National Pride by 2028.”
The ATR was compared to scaling a high, Everest-like mountain, by 2028, with base camps (intermediate targets) to be reached along the way.
And it wasn’t just big words:
Truth to tell, probing questions were asked by the
MSAB. There seemed to be a sense of cynicism about whether this plan was “owned” by the Army at all levels (which is a necessary condition for its success), or whether it was the brainchild of someone at the top (which would then be discarded when he retired).
It turned out—and this is where we saw the first sign of a real transformation—that the ATR was the product of a week-long brainstorming session participated in by 49 officers, enlisted personnel and civilian employees (talk about participatory decisionmaking), assisted by 12 staff
| 26 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028” and facilitators. The sessions, which sometimes lasted until the wee hours of the morning, were described as stormy, passionate, but always with views that came from sincere and committed hearts.
The most senior and most junior officers present during the brainstorming (in
Tagaytay) were also present:
Maj. Gen. Emmanuel Bautista, a principal figure in both the
AFP’s Bayanihan (“winning the peace”) paradigm shift and the ATR, and 2nd Lt. Mario
Feliciano, an Iranian-Filipino who started his military studies at the Philippine Military
Academy and then finished at
West Point.
The witness given by
Feliciano was most powerful:
The scandals wracking the Army (Garcia, Ligot) so disillusioned the fresh graduate that he thought seriously of resigning. Then he was asked to participate in the brainstorming, and what he saw and experienced there— the sincerity, the commitment, and the rank-free openness of the discussions—made him change his mind. He is solidly behind the ATR and will stake his life on it. The young lieutenant’s testimony, interrupted by his attempts to hold back his tears, brought most of his listeners to tears.
MSAB Chair Jess
Estanislao asked all the other officers present to speak their minds, and it was clear to everyone in the room that the
ATR was wholly “owned.”
Which bodes very well for the Army, and for the
Philippines.

• Col Alan R Arrojado Inf (GSC) PA
I. Introduction/
Background:
The year was in 1995 and as an Army captain assigned in OPSS, TRADOC, I wrote a position paper entitled
“Infantry: A Neglected AFPOS.”
My purpose was to create awareness among infantry soldiers about the low regard and treatment of the Infantry Corps within the
Army organization in terms of career advancement, trainings and equipage. It was aimed
Operation Control infantry battalion troopers (51IB, 64IB , and 65IB) under 103rd Brigade, 1st Infantry Division in a joint platoon tactics training in Lanao del Sur area during the first quarter of the year.
further for them to appreciate their sacrifices and their important role in the overall accomplishments of the Army.
It was a wishful thinking that the Infantry Corps should have its own Chief just like with the other corps of the Army. other Chiefs of Offices from the Artillery, Engineers, Armor,
Nurse, Dental, Finance and the like remained unaffected.
As an initial positive result, the Army Command then created the Office of the
Army Chief Infantry that would be responsible for career advancement and training development for the infantry members.
As years passed by, no significant changes happened in the Infantry Corps. The way I see it, the Infantry
Corps as Armed Forces of the Philippines Occupational
Specialty (AFPOS) and as an organization is still neglected and sidelined.
Unfortunately, it was soon deactivated just as it was easily established and was replaced by the newly activated Army
Personnel Management
Center. The irony of it all, only the OACI was dissolved; while
As a review on Army organization, generally, it is composed of three (3) major groups or commands to wit: the combat or maneuver units, the combat support units and the combat service support units whose members are trained according to their respective military occupational specialties for them to perform well their respective roles and functions in the Army. The combat or maneuver units in our Army are the 10 Infantry Divisions, the
Special Operations Command and the Light Armor Division.
Their primary role is to close in with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver in order to neutralize or capture him.
For the combat support units, they serve as force multipliers for the maneuver combat units. These are the
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 27 |

Army Artillery Regiment, Army
Signal Regiment, Intelligence units and Engineering Brigades belong to this group.
On the other hand, the combat service support units provide the various services supports for the whole Army.
These units are the Army
Support Command, the Army
Finance Center, APMC, the chaplain, medical and similar offices or units. Among the three groups, the Infantry Corps is the biggest organization within the
Army; yet, it lacks significant development much less needed immediate reforms in many aspects as military organization.
II. Observations and
Suggested Reforms:
Reestablish the Office of the
Army Chief of Infantry
My foremost call for improvement in the Infantry
Corps is the reestablishment and the designation of the
Army’s Chief of Infantry. We need a senior Infantry officer who is visionary and credible to pioneer the professionalization of the corps. If I may suggest, he should be the most senior officer or general who rose from Infantry career and had identity. Just like a leaderless professional organization, its progress if there is any, is always slow or if not misdirected. With a responsible Chief of Infantry,
I believe necessary reforms can be fast tracked in terms of An excellent Infantry training will lead to a credible Philippine Army.
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career, training, and equipage within the corps.
Reestablish the Army Infantry
School
To professionalize its members, I strongly recommend to Army leadership to reestablish the Army School of Infantry. As I have long observed, the major cause for the lack of professional expertise among infantry soldiers is the absence of a dedicated training institution.
Infantry soldiers are always exposed to different training standards like the Scout
Ranger and Special Forces training methodology. Our
Army I should say is the only
To further professionalize Infantry members, the Army School of Infantry should be reestablished.
Army in the world perhaps like security forces of East Timor and Haiti that has no Infantry school. Despite our Army’s long existence and the corps biggest membership, our Army overlooked the importance of a standard Infantry training. schools or training units. They have dedicated instructors that set training standards for their corps members as well as develop their own relevant doctrines. As such, if we want effective and efficient Infantry soldiers or units in the Army, we must establish an Infantry school immediately. We can do this by re- designating the
Combat Arms School into an
Infantry School and the Army
Training Groups into Infantry
Training Groups.
movement formations or fire and movement techniques or demonstrate bayonet fighting skill. It is frustrating to know from Infantry units deployed nationwide that soldiers do not know these basic tactics.
Thus, as my second call for reforms, the Army should have an Infantry school that can standardize training and develop relevant fighting doctrines for the Infantry.
I believe this is the biggest mistake or omission of past
Army leaders from the ‘50s to date that they failed to appreciate the importance of an excellent Infantry training, that a credible Army should have. You see, majority in the Army admire very much the Scout Rangers, the
Special Forces, Intelligence
Operatives, Engineers, Armor troops and the like because their soldiers perform well in their given tasks or missions.
This is so because their soldiers are trained in their respective
With an Infantry school, the corps can now develop and enforce Infantry training standards for its tactics, techniques, procedures and
Infantry skills. In fact, these
Infantry TTPs are no longer given much emphasis in the basic and advance training courses of Infantry soldiers.
This is very evident in the field that Infantry soldiers could not execute basic field hand signals, perform squad
Establish a Standard Infantry
TO&E
As major component of the Army, I think it is now high time to establish a simple, affordable and doable standard Infantry Table of
Organization and Equipment.
If we want to have an effective and potent combat unit, the more it is necessary to have a standard Infantry TOE as basis in executing Infantry mission.
Without it, it will always appear blindly that infantry soldiers are being sent to the field with
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 29 |

The Army should have an Infantry School that could standardize training and develop relevant fighting doctrines for the
Infantry.
lacking resources needed to accomplish their mission. A basic example and no longer in the Army’s inventory is the bayonet; consequently nobody in the Army especially Infantry leaders value the bayonet’s importance. No longer included in the soldier’s combat clothing issues and equipment, very few soldiers invested bayonets for their personal field use. Another observation is that young platoon leaders seldom lead a full complement of an Infantry platoon. More often, they are leading only two to three squads during combat operations. With a standard TOE and reinforced by commanders, Infantry units and soldiers can execute well their tasks and mission in the field.
Designate an Infantry Officer as member in Infantry-related procurement of uniforms and equipment.
The biggest end users of Army’s procurement are the Infantry soldiers. It is but necessary to protect the quality of Infantry supplies and equipment. Just like in the previous decades, Army procurement and acceptance committee members are mostly from the QM and OS corps. As suggested then that an Infantry officer be included as member, all of them disagreed because according to them Army procurement is all technical matters. Hence, as a result and experienced, there were procurement of defective combat boots, substandard uniforms and equipment that were issued to field units. It is therefore mandatory to have an Infantry representative in
Infantry-related procurement of supplies and equipment to assure the quality of these items.
| 30 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028”

will eventually improve the
Infantry Corps and the Army as well.
I rally all those who are concerned with the Infantry corps to kindly fill-up the suggestion forms and send or email it to this address:
The Editor, The Army
Journal
OG5, Headquarters
Philippine Army
Fort Bonifacio, Metro
Manila
Email: og5@army.mil.ph
pajournal@yahoo.com
IMPROVING THE INFANTRY CORPS
SUGGESTIONS
1.Designate the
Army Chief Infantry
2.Reestablish
Army Infantry School
3. Establish a Standard
Infantry TOE
4. Designate an Infantry member in TIAC
Other Suggestions a. Organize PA Infantry
Association b. Formulate an
Infantry Motto
YES NO REMARKS
X Need to advance
Infantry interests
X
X
To professionalize the
Infantry corps
To be an effective and efficient organization
To assure quality of
CCIEs
X
X
For the welfare of
Infantry members
To be identified from the rest
III. Rallying Call through
Survey:
To rally support for my call for improvement in the Infantry
Corp, I encourage and enjoin every infantry soldier and other stakeholders to express support to my suggestions and most especially elicit bright ideas from them. In this manner, we will know the general view among Infantry soldiers if immediate reforms are needed in the Infantry
Corps. With other support and suggestions; hopefully, it will result to drastic changes that
IV.Looking Forward For
Changes:
As I have been in the active service long enough, being with the Infantry units,
I observed that Infantry organization has always been neglected and sidelined even until now. Five years ago, while in an open forum on military professionalism with
DND officials at NOLCOM
Headquarters, I suggested to a senior official that DND should direct the Army to establish an Infantry School just like the Armor School for Light Armor Division. You know what was his answer being a cavalry officer? He said “The Army does not need to establish an Infantry
School because it will only make the Army back to jurassic period!”
Though long retired,
I believed he had not experienced the hardships what infantry soldiers went through while deployed in the field and the disparities of support of Infantry compared to other AFPOSes. Most likely he was always riding in every assignment while in the service. His remark was devoid of concern for improvement not only for the
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 31 |

Infantry corps but to the Army in general. It only illustrated his myopic view on the role of
Infantry in the Army. I consider likewise such remarks as an insult to all infantry soldiers who sacrifice much compared to other corps in the Army.
As it is always said, Infantry soldiers are doing everything to accomplish their mission nationwide; however, their leaders failed to give due attention for their improvement in terms of career development and raising training standards. Following the Army
Transformation Roadmap, my call for improvement for the
Infantry Corps is the first step for the Infantry Corps to reach that goal.
V. Conclusion: better and dynamic. With my few remaining years in active service, it is my crusade to put the Infantry Corps in its right perspectives. I have been wondering ever since why previous Army leaders failed to analyze the handicaps in
Our Army of today will still be our Army of the future; hence, it is imperative for corps members to always seek ways to make our organization the Army’s Infantry training, equipage and career advancement. If nothing happens to my call for reforms,
I think I chose the wrong specialization and perhaps
I will begin to campaign to encourage Infantry soldiers to join other Army’s specialization because I believe their members are better trained professionally.
To have an effective and potent combat unit, it is necessary to have a standard Infantry TOE as bases in executing Infantry mission.
So, my fellow infantrymen rotting in the field, always climbing and operating in jungles and mountains across the country, have been facing death countless of times, mostly staying away from their loved ones, and lest forgetting to fallen comrades, come and join me in improving the Infantry
Corps – “The Cutting Edge of the Philippine Army!”
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
COL ALAN R ARROJADO INF (GSC) PA is presently the Deputy Brigade Commander of the 103rd
Infantry Brigade, 1st ID, PA based in Kampo Ranao, Marawi City, Lanao Del Sur. A member of PMA
“Maharlika” Class of 1984, he had been assigned and saw actions in Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao and Sulu provinces in various Infantry career designations with the 2nd Scout Ranger Battalion, 4th Scout Ranger
Company, FSRR, 69th IB, 7ID, and 35th IB, 1ID. He had attended Infantry courses both here and abroad particularly in CONUS and Australia. With few remaining active years of service, he is a crusader for the improvement of the Infantry Corps particularly for the reestablishment of an Infantry School. He finds it very ironic why an Infantry Corps with 10 Infantry Divisions has no Infantry School while other Light Armor
Division, Army Artillery Regiment or the Army Signal Regiment have their own training schools. Likewise, majority of the world’s Armies have their own Infantry Training Centers and yet only our Philippine Army has none of it though there is an Infantry Department in the Combat Arms School, TRADOC, PA.
| 32 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028”

I n the Asian region, the Philippines is one of the countries that has been seriously affected by natural disasters, based on the 2006 data of the Asian
Disaster Reduction Center. In that year alone, the Philippines ranked 3 rd and 4 th in the top 25 countries hit by natural disaster based on the number of people killed. It ranked third during typhoon Reming that hit Bicol region and other Southern
Luzon provinces leaving 1,399 dead, while the tragic landslide in Barangay Guinsaugon in
Saint Bernard, Southern Leyte that took 1,112 lives ranked 4th.
Typhoon Milenyo , in the same year, placed the country thrice in the list, it ranked 20th since it left Manila, other parts of Luzon
• Carina C Pastrano and Panay with 228 persons lifeless. Indonesia ranked first on that year when Java Island was rocked by a 6.3 magnitude killer earthquake, taking 5,778 lives.
Studies made by disaster researchers generally reflect a common opinion when they argued that all disasters could be seen as being humaninduced for the reason that human actions before a natural event (earthquake, volcanic eruption, etc) can prevent the consequences from developing into disasters.
According to them, a natural calamity becomes only a natural disaster when it affects human vulnerability— the characteristics and circumstances of a community, system or asset that make it susceptible to the damaging effects of a hazard. It is the population’s capacity to support or resist a disaster—their resilience, in other words— wherein the resulting loss can be averted. As we always argue, the floods here in Metro Manila could have been prevented if we properly dispose off our garbage, if the metropolis is not over-populated, if the drainage systems are properly constructed, and so on.
The country’s tropical climate means getting used to hot summer months and stormy or cold weather on other months. This however, should not mean, we have to get used to suffer other tragedies
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 33 |

when these seasons come.
The natural hazards shouldn’t make our lives miserable and tragic since they recur every year. Admittedly, we have abused our environment through disregard of proper environmental management and it’s getting its toll on us.
This, plus other human-made factors, contributed to the natural disasters we are facing now. But that is supposed to be in the past now.
“For the past, the government had been concentrating on response during and after a natural calamity strikes the country, we were reactive. But now with the new Republic Act
10121, the government turns proactive,” admitted the disaster preparedness and management head of the
Office of Civil Defense (OCD),
Special Forces uniform, the very well execute best retired general now dons an laid plans to accomplish a office working barong attire. mission. By that, he has the
Retired MGen Benito Ramos, moral ascendancy “to call with his towering height and stern bearing, really means business, alright, but he is upon other instrumentalities or entities of the government and nongovernment and civic a picture of someone with a organizations for assistance very positive disposition (in in terms of facilities and spite of sleepless nights while resources for the protection monitoring typhoon Falcon and preservation of life and during the time of interview), properties.” despite the enormity of his dual role as administrator of the
“The OCD is the working
OCD and executive director of horse for the Council (referring the NDRRMC.
to NDRRMC), and my job here is the orchestrator, just like a
The former general has been entrusted with this enormous task of “administering a comprehensive national civil defense and disaster symphony conductor… in order to play a good-sounding music, everybody should focus at my stick and follow,” he simply put.
risk reduction management During disasters, “I could program” -- is a battleorchestrate on the national seasoned soldier, a competent administrator, a highly level … I will just tell DSWD to preposition food and nonrespected leader who could food items … all evacuation a bureau of the Department of National Defense like the
Armed Forces of the Philippines
(AFP).
The Man Behind OCD and
NDRRMC
Meeting the man behind the
OCD and National Disaster Risk
Reduction and Management
Council (NDRRMC) was not a first time, but the interview itself was. Though years had passed since the last time we saw him at the Special Operations
Command headquarters in
Fort Magsaysay, then in his
As “orchestrator,” Usec Ramos knows by heart whom to call upon to bring forth the
“harmonious tune” when an imminent disaster strikes.
| 34 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028”

centers are already identified.
DSWD is in tandem with DOH, since sanitation is the number one concern in evacuation centers,” the Undersecretary explained. With OCD as the focal point, according to him, all line agencies of the government are represented at the facilities of the OCD for a smooth coordination.
However, unlike a beautiful music that comes out from a performing symphony orchestra, facing a coming disaster does not produce something always in tune and harmony, since despite all the pre-disaster actions and measures being undertaken within the context of disaster risk reduction an management, disasters still bring destruction to lives and properties.
The government’s over-all objective is for zero casualty during disasters. It is a tall order, considering that there would be circumstances that would be beyond anyone’s control -- like uninformed fisherfolks that went fishing, a man suffering from dementia, and a man who was bitten by snake when he returned home from the evacuation center.
And so as a preventive measure, the former military man turns to the uniformed men for help. Through the AFP
Disaster Response Task Force,
Elements of 8ID’s 34th Infantry Battalion, together with residents of San Jose
De Buan, Western Samar, clear the heavy volume of mudslides that covered the access road to the municipality after continuous rains pounded the whole region.
he asks them to remain within As a state policy, it is ensured the areas of concern until all the victims have safely returned to that disaster risk reduction and climate change measures are their homes. “Our soldiers are the ones filling in for what the gender responsive, sensitive to indigenous knowledge local government have difficulty in doing with dispatch,” he systems, and respectful of human rights. During quipped with pride.
evacuations, he never allows the term “forced evacuation” to
“Our people should understand also that we need be used and would rather call it “pre-emptive evacuation”, their cooperation in a time like this,” the Undersecretary instead. He double checks the soldiers’ manner on how underscored. In order to keep the victims safe in the evacuation centers, especially those who have farm animals the victims are “prodded” to evacuate their homes, in that case, “we won’t be accused in their care, a separate place would be allocated for their animals. This helps prevent the evacuees, especially the head of human rights violations,” he reasoned.
As a rule, this man maintains national pride in his line of of the families, from returning to their homes while it is still work—unless of course “it is a matter of life and death…then I dangerous to do so.
have to swallow my pride and
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 35 |

ask for foreign assistance, like during typhoon Juan…I had to ask JUSMAG for helicopters to transport provisions and tents to Cauayan, Isabela where the victims’ homes were washed out and there was even no food since the NFA warehouse and the sacks of rice inside were also irreparably damaged,” he said. But as long as our government could provide for our people during these trying times, then it would, according to the Undersecretary. He, however, underscored the many non-government and
Foreign tourists in Donsol, Sorsogon while being transferred to a safer place by elements of 3SF Coy after Typhoon Bebeng disrupted their vacation.
international organizations, private sector and volunteers for their support to our country and people.
On Republic Act 10121
On 27 May 2010, Republic
Act 10121, or the Philippine
Disaster Risk Reduction and
Management Act of 2010, was signed into law by former
President Gloria Macapagal-
Arroyo. The implementing rules and regulations were signed by Defense Secretary Voltaire
T Gazmin on September
27, 2010, under the present administration of President
Benigno Aquino lll, for which a framework has been designed that serves as the basis for a National Disaster Risk
Reduction and Management
Plan, now being crafted by 39 member-agencies to include the civil society organizations and the private sector. The
OCD administrator summed this Act as an all-of-government and all-of-civil society approach to contain both man-made and natural disasters.
Members of the Philippine Army’s Disaster Response Unit undergo a regular mustering and readiness inspection in preparation for the rainy season.
The government is now focused on disaster preparedness rather than disaster response. Disaster
Preparedness is defined under Section 3 of Republic
Act No 10121 as based on sound analysis of disaster risks and good linkages with early warning systems, contingency planning, stockpiling of equipment and supplies, the
| 36 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028”

development of arrangement for coordination, evacuation and public information and associated training and field exercises.
“We used to give emphasis on response—if there is a disaster, that’s the only time we act. Under the new law— the paradigm shifts from being reactive to proactive, besides response, we give emphasis on preparation and mitigation, and later on the relief and rehabilitation,”
Usec Ramos shared. There are activities being undertaken at present that help build or
Elements of PA DRU rescuing flood victims in Metro Manila.
the barangay level,” he added.
There are also earthquake and and hazard-resistant construction of infrastructures upgrade capabilities of the local government units to contain fire drills being undertaken in schools and government and buildings as well as improved environmental the problem, according to him.
This includes the information offices on a quarterly basis.
policies and public awareness.
“If the roads have cracks, we education campaigns (IEC) which are regularly conducted for the communities as “they
Disaster mitigation, on the other hand, consists of measures being undertaken to will no longer wait for them until they totally collapsed, now we could use the Internal are the stakeholders, down to ensure engineering techniques Revenue Allotment to make the repairs, unlike before,” the
Undersecretary commented.
Elements of 3SF Coy evacuate residents of Donsol, Sorsogon to safety after
Typhoon Bebeng hit the area.
One of the lessons being taught especially to farmers during IEC is how to adapt, for example, to climate change.
Simply put, what used to be the
“ nakaugalian ng itanim ” during summertime could no longer be applicable, since it could possibly rain during summer.
Adaptation, under Section 3 of the Act, is defined as the adjustment in natural or human systems in response to actual
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 37 |

or expected climactic stimuli or their effects, which moderates harm or exploits beneficial opportunities. “ Our people should understand that we have to adapt to situations like this,” the OCD administrator surmised.
In order to mitigate the effects of climate change, the
Climate Change Commission, headed by the President, was formed and together with the
Disaster Reduction and Rescue
Management, as stated under
Section 6 of RA 101211, they will formulate and implement a framework for climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction and management, from which all policies, programs, and projects shall be based .
On the Role of the Army on Disaster Response
The retired general was emphatic when he said, “I want you to write this, I’m very proud of the Philippine Army, the
AFP and the PNP as a whole.
Our soldiers have been truly a source of help during the time of disasters. They are my last defense against disasters.”
The recent flooding in the six provinces of Central
Mindanao attested how the military, the Eastern Mindanao
Command in particular, under
LGen Arthur Tabaquero, and the regional OCD under Dir.
Loreto Rirao, through close coordination, had successfully responded to almost 33,000 evacuees who had become victims of that disaster.
The Undersecretary cited some instances where in the
Army soldiers have become the last defense—the only ones who could respond to the victims. That was when all the means of reaching the people of an isolated municipality in
Samar, San Jose de Buan, were in vain. There was no other way to bring the relief goods but to traverse the dangerous tracks on foot.
Soldiers from two battalions of the 8 th Infantry Division under
MGen Mario Chan, who filled their back packs with all the
Army troops, with the help of concerned populace, sweep the road nets of San Jose De Buan, Western Samar to assure that all minor and major mudslips and landslides and even trees and other road blocks were given due attention to further guarantee smooth and safe passage to the travelers.
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provisions they could carry, left their firearms and delivered the much needed relief goods to the calamity-stricken area.
Three hours after Japan was hit by Tsunami in March 11 this year, residents living near the shores in Basco, Batanes were already on higher grounds, because the “man” from OCD called the nearest
Army headquarters to set off an evacuation. Accordingly, the communications was very fast, as well as the Army’s reaction.
The same is true in Bicol, the Usec jested that in that area, “we have Col Arthur Ang
(referring to 901st Infantry
Brigade commander) as Mt.
Mayon’s governor and Col
Felix J Castro Jr (referring to
903rd Infantry Brigade, 9ID,PA brigade commander ) as Mt.
Bulusan’s governor. Simply, these are the men who are the first to respond, who maintain order, and the last to leave in any eventuality.
Actions Before/During
Disaster
Col Felix Castro Jr, Comdr 903rd Brigade,discusses with Mr Boy Lopez of
Sorsogon DRRMO the contingency plans in case of Mt Bulusan eruption.
Besides the hazards, like typhoons that hit our country throughout the year, there are other disasters that the
Office of Civil Defense should oversee. Even the fighting in Mindanao, “if there are internally displaced people, they have to be evacuated in a safe area when fighting between the soldiers and rebels have become fierce and long… our problems with the
Preparedness and Response
Team under Executive Order
34, which is headed by
Executive Secretary Paquito
Ochoa. “This concern is no longer under OCD, however, the Defense Secretary is a member of that committee, among other concerned government agencies,” disclosed.
he
Disaster, as defined under
Section 3 of RA 10121, is a serious disruption of the functioning of a community or a society involving widespread human, material, economic or environmental losses and impacts, which exceeds the ability of the affected community or society to cope with its own resources.
situations of OFWs…in South
Korea alone, we have 47,000
Filipinos who are documented and 11,000 undocumented… and we have to evacuate them in the event that South and North Korea clash,” Usec
Ramos explained. “This is a very serious and complicated job,” he further admitted.
This situation has triggered the creation of the Overseas
What happened in Japan could possibly happen here, according to Usec Ramos.
But what he is afraid of, he confessed, yet he does not wish to happen, is when the law of the jungle will reign –
“ the survival of the fittest and elimination of the unfit ,” when this catastrophe would hit the country. Three disasters could kill in the event of an earthquake—fire, tsunami and
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 39 |

rescue you in 10 minutes,” the undersecretary further said in a lighter tone. “For all you know we could be victims ourselves as much as you are.” Making sure that the roof of the house is properly secured, ready to eat meals are available, there are extra full charged batteries for mobile phone… are but a few things that should be addressed by individuals.
Indeed, past disasters had inflicted seriousness of
This forms part of the Capability Demonstration on Humanitarian Assistance and
Disaster Response (HADR) Operations of the Philippine Army Disaster Response
Unit , during the Security Operations Workshop that was jointly participated in by the Philippines and Singapore.
earthquake itself. Those three, he could not do anything about except to prepare the people for any eventuality, he said, since they are nature’s wrath—but he must watch out for another three effects which are looting, panic buying and hoarding.
“What we could learn from the experience of the Japanese, is their discipline,” he noted.
Each province has a different contingency plan. “Bicol for example has tropical cyclones,
Mayon and Bulusan volcanoes and the New People’ s Army… while Liguasan Marsh has the
MILF, and so on…” he cited.
The contingency plan stands, no matter who would occupy the government seat because it is a result of a thorough study and all they have to do is have
However, each individual has his own responsibility. “Do not expect the government to damages to lives, properties, and economy to the country.
With the full implementation of it implemented, said the OCD man, “no politicking in times of disaster.”
RA 10121 and the appointment of a “universally acknowledged experts in the field of disaster
We do not know exactly when a disaster will strike nor prevent its occurrence, but preparedness and management and of proven honesty and most likely weather forecasts give us a fair warning, and that is the essence of having an appropriate disaster management measures in order to lessen or limit natural hazards adverse impacts to human vulnerability. The State policy is to “ uphold the people’s cooperation of every Juan dela
Cruz, it is only but natural that we could have a fair chance to continue building our society’s resilience from the onslaught of hazards to reduce their negative impact to lives, properties and the economy.
References: constitutional rights to life and property by addressing the integrity,” as well as the
1.Interview with OCD Administrator and NDRRMC Executive Director, root causes of vulnerabilities to disasters… ” (Section 2,
Declaration of Policy RA 10121).
Undersecretary Benito T Ramos
2.Republic Act, No 10121
“Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and
Management Act of 2010”
3.ADRC- Natural Disaster Data
Book-2006
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• Lydia V. Cabajar
There is no hard a task to one who is more than willing to work harder, there is no goal too far to achieve to one who has a definite goal to pursue.
Above statement aptly describes Col Gener del Rosario when he assumed his post at the Special
Services Unit last 15 January 2011 and buckled down to work to set the pace and the directions for a better and more purposive unit of the Army Support Command.
SSU is under the umbrella of ASCOM which takes charge of special services other than logistics, finance, and warehousing functions of the latter. Special services include, but not limited to, planning, monitoring and programming of the physical fitness of all Philippine Army soldiers. SSU also administers, maintains, monitors and supervises all recreational facilities of the Command, like the PA Wellness Center (Gymnasium), the swimming pool, the Tennis Court, and the Picnic Area, among others.
It has been Colonel del Rosario’s personal philosophy in life to always do what is right in whatever office he is assigned with. Thus upon assumption of his post as SSU Commanding Officer, he called on for his people to know what needs to be done and to find solutions to the pressing problems besetting the unit.
Dealing with “Informal Settlers”
The SSU headquarters has been the compound of “informal settlers” for quite sometime now posing a risk to the security of the unit’s personnel, properties and equipment. Located at the back of the unit are mostly civilian and some soldier- dwellers who are renting small houses owned by active and even retired military personnel who hold “property rights” and who erected the shanties.
The Special Services Unit maintains, monitors, and supervises all recreational facilities of the Philippine Army such as the
PA Wellness Center.
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 41 |

Furthermore, the SSU compound was turned into a parking lot by tenants.
Unidentified people had been to and fro within the SSU compound, even food delivery boys and softdrink dealers.
Hence, Colonel del
Rosario told his personnel to put up a perimeter fence to secure the SSU compound, after getting permission from his superior at
ASCOM of his actions. As the area has been controlled, the next best thing that Colonel del
Rosario did was to cut the water and electricity lines these informal settlers have been enjoying at the expense of SSU.
Improved comfort and shower rooms in the PA Gymnasium.
To avoid the ire of these informal settlers, Colonel del
Rosario engaged them in a dialogue explaining his side on why he had to do what previous
SSU commanders failed to do.
The dwellers were granted an access path and were advised to apply for water and electric connection at Manila Water and
Meralco, respectively. Colonel del Rosario believes that through constant dialogues with people involved, there would be no problem left unsolved.
Cleanliness Is a Priority
Another project that the dashing CO of SSU gave priority was the cleanliness outside and inside SSU offices. One of the disciplines he inculcated among his officers and men is to treat their offices like their own houses.
Since the building would not be undergoing major renovation anymore (as there is a guidance that SSU will be moving out from its present location), Colonel del
Rosario advised his personnel to maintain cleanliness in the whole compound, inside and out, where everybody would feel comfortable while working and goes about his daily duties in the office.
It even came to a point that the unit’s Sgt Major and
FSgt would do the inspection if the troops have made the whole surroundings and offices spic and span even without their CO around.
Improving the PA Wellness
Center
As mentioned earlier, SSU supervises all the recreational facilities of the Army Command.
Thus, Colonel del Rosario has seen to it that these facilities would undergo major improvements.
First on the improvements list was the PA Wellness Center comfort rooms. Colonel del
Rosario emphasized that the
CRs have been the same from the time he was a captain to the present time that he is a full colonel. He exerted extra efforts to have a budget for the renovations and improvements so the players, invited guests and other clienteles would frequent the wellness center. The once very dirty basketball court and its immediate surroundings became pleasing to the eyes without litters of all kinds… cigarette butts, empty cans of soft drinks, empty food wrappers and even spits.
To maintain cleanliness, trash cans became visible inside the facility so gym users will hesitate to just throw away their rubbish if there are trash bins around.
Colonel del Rosario narrated that when he started to implement the collection of
Php 25.00 fee for dependents for military dependents for the use of the gym, except for active military personnel regardless of ranks, he earned the ire of many, to include wives of senior ranking officers and even captains’ and lieutenants’ wives and others
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who have been using the gym for free before. He explained to these complainants tactfully that the collection of P25.00 isn’t his own policy but the policy created by the Philippine Army in the proper use of the gym. He emphasized that the collected fees will be used to settle water and electric bills and for purchase of janitorial materials in cleaning the facilities. To those who easily understood the change, there was no issue anymore. But there were those who insisted their right to use the facility for free. Thus they forwarded their complaints against Colonel del
Rosario to higher authorities.
In front of his superior officers, he emphasized that he is just implementing a policy that has been in the book of rules and regulations for the past seven years. He also justified that when he started to implement such policy, collection increased so much so that previous unpaid accounts of SSU with the Non-
Appropriated Funds
Office have been settled. He also said that the failure of previous
SSU commanders to implement this was a big loss to the management of the Wellness Center.
The superior officers got his points and gave their nods. He was advised that he could go on with such collection.
area full of different kinds of litters. Colonel del Rosario again ordered for a massive cleaning of the swimming pool and its immediate environs.
Breaking Away from the Old
Practice
Another change Colonel del Rosario implemented under his watch was to break the old practice of giving special treatment to SSU soldiers who are players for the Philippine team.
These “special enlisted players” were not required to attend troop formation before.
But Colonel del Rosario did not favor this idea. So when he called for his mustering of troops when he became the CO, SSU, many were unaccounted for. SSU has
97 national players under his management and supervision.
So he told his Sgt Major to mark them with “unauthorized absences.” But when these absences became intolerable, he again sought Commander,
ASCOM permission for these hard-headed national players to be dropped from the roster of troops.
He told his personnel that everybody deserves equal treatment. There should be no special treatment even if some of the SSU troops are famous national players and or national coaches for the Philippine team.
“There’s no big people here at
SSU,” Colonel del Rosario further emphasized. This gesture made regular SSU soldiers happy because “comrades” who were
“untouchables” before are now given the equal treatment that if they deserved to be punished they would be so, based on their offenses.
Thus, the “bata-bata” system was cast away. Soldiers who are national players or even the unit’s regular soldiers, both have to follow the rules and regulations of the unit, nobody is exempted, except maybe in extreme cases.
Likewise, the same goes true with the swimming pool that was not properly maintained.
The surrounding was so unsightly and the corner of the pool area was like a Smokey Mountain
The PA swimming pool’s cleanliness is being maintained regularly to attract more clienteles.
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 43 |

Colonel del Rosario also required these national players to undergo refresher course or the basic military training. When he reviewed the profiles of his national players, 91 out of 97 have no basic military training at all. He requested his mother unit,
ASCOM, to conduct a refresher course and divided his players who will undergo the training on a staggered basis.
For the 1st batch, 37 players were listed to take the course. But there were two famous and with star-complex national players, who adamantly refused to report at all saying the training would be too hard for them to undergo, that they would be exposed to the heat of the sun, they don’t want to go jogging at early dawn, and all sorts of excuses just so they would not have to undergo such schooling.
Despite efforts of SSU ordering them to report for schooling and sending them due warnings, still these two players insisted their hard-headedness until they learned later on that they have been discharged from the service after the deadline period given to them lapsed.
With their monthly salary and other benefits curtailed after being discharged, after a month or two, a final realization dawned on these two. They were begging
Colonel del Rosario to take them back in the military service. The
SSU CO advised them to apply for reinstatement undergoing the tedious processes with no shortcuts despite being national players. The case of these two players would serve as a wake up call and lessons learned to others that Colonel del Rosario really mean business in giving equal treatment to all.
By next year, all these national players with no military training ever since would have undergone the refresher course.
To some of these boys who experienced for the first time the basic military training, there were positive feedbacks that they truly enjoyed the discipline, the sense of belongingness, the camaraderie and the proud feeling of being men-in-uniform and the elation of being able to wear the military uniform properly they have learned while on schooling. They have even encouraged co-national players to undergo the same training.
Injecting Innovations in the
Command’s Tae-bo
On Tuesdays and Fridays,
Army personnel gather at the
HPA Grandstand for tae-bo exercises. To do away with the usual routine that is starting to bore the personnel, Colonel del
Rosario injected some changes to entice more to attend the early dawn physical fitness exercises.
Tae-bo sequences have been re-arranged. Instead of one male leader at the front leading the troops in doing the exercises, two more female soldiers have also been added. Accounting of personnel is now delegated to the unit concerned. Each unit is allotted its own space in the grandstand. A unit representative will report in front. If unit representatives in front of the grandstand are few, those units which are absent would be easily detected.
Col Gener Del Rosario, SSU Commanding Officer, acts as a father figure to his personnel who are national players to the Philippine team.
To further highlight the tae-bo activity, Colonel del
Rosario started to implement the award system for best tae-bo execution. Another award is given to the unit with the most organized group, and an award for a unit with the best chanting while jogging. It is the
CS, PA himself presenting
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Regular conduct of Tae-bo is continuously innovated to entice more to attend the early dawn physical fitness exercise.
Here, members of the Team Army mass calisthenics pose for a souvenir shot after being declared winners in the AFPsponsored mass calisthenics competition. the streamer awards to the units which bested in the three categories.
problem that he noticed when he arrived at the unit that there’s no specific room to confer with his staff and personnel so he put up one.
All these innovations have been looked forward to by the Army tae-bo enthusiasts and have been the subject of
“kantiyawan” among themselves.
By the time this article came out, another innovation might have been added by
Colonel del Rosario to offer “new” version of tae-bo so as to whet further the appetite of personnel attending the physical exercises.
Further Innovations and
Plans
With a comfortable and clean headquarters, Colonel del Rosario further provided a conducive working atmosphere by putting up the unit’s conference room. It was one
He also converted a storage area to be a minigym facility of the unit. Old but still reusable gymnasium equipment, discarded by the PA
Wellness Center, were put in order and rehabilitated. They are now placed at the minigym so SSU personnel could engaged in some physical fitness activities during their spare time. He also plans to put up a recreational room with billiard table, computers and entertainment gadgets to ease the boredom of his enlisted personnel. The room could also serve as a lounge area where his personnel could rest and enjoy bonding moments.
For now, Colonel del
Rosario is in no hurry to put into reality all his plans and vision for
SSU. He has his hands full in being the General Manager of the PA Wellness Center and other PA recreational facilities; the over-all in charge in the conduct of the physical fitness programs for all Army soldiers; the conduit between his national players/coaches and the
Philippine Sports Commission,
Philippine Olympic Committee and other national sports organizations; and being the father figure among his personnel at SSU. Roles rolled into one and roles that fit Colonel del
Rosario to a T. He will leave no stone left unturned to make further innovations for SSU to deliver more improved and much better services for Army personnel, dependents and clienteles.
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 45 |

th
•Cpt Celeste Frank L Sayson (I) PA, 4th PCGH PIO
Filipino Warrior
Peacekeepers
The Filipino nation is built on an edifice of people with a strong character towards the value and aspiration of freedom and peace. This moral fiber led its ancestors to gain independence for the
Filipino Nation on June 12,
1898. The brave Katipuneros shed their blood in pursuit of this cause against overwhelming invading foreign forces at the height of World War II. Again, in the mid-80s, the peace-loving
Filipinos deposed a dictator
The 4th PCGH arriving in their new place of assignment in Golan Heights.
in a bloodless revolution, an event etched in the history of the world’s geopolitics.
Preparing for the Noble Call
Filipinos all over the world bring this with pride, and as they celebrated the 113th
Philippine Independence Day last June 12,
2011, the Filipino warrior peacekeepers in Golan
Heights live with this spirit - a continuing drive, a burning fervor for the pursuit of real peace that goes on, even beyond the Philippine borders.
This Filipino spirit binds its professional armed forces to pursue neutrality in maintaining and keeping the peace in the highly contested region of Golan Heights – living within the code and conduct of warrior peacekeepers.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) trained, equipped, and sent the 76th Infantry
“Victrix” Battalion (76IB) to form part of the
United Nations Disengagement Observer Force
(UNDOF) in Golan Heights. This is the first time in the AFP’s history that a core battalion, from a single major service, was sent to the United
Nations for peacekeeping operations. The idea is to send a core group to emphasize unit integrity and enhance performance and competitiveness of Filipino peacekeepers.
Under the AFP’s “One Unit, One Service
Concept,” the VICTRIX Battalion was chosen to compose the 4th Philippine Contingent to
| 46 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028”

Golan Heights (4th PCGH), being one of the
“best performers among the AFP’s battalions.”
The 76IB, during its stint in Internal Security
Operations in the Southern Tagalog Region of the Philippines, mastered its peace, security, development and environmental campaigns that earned an outstanding reputation from among different stakeholders.
The unit completed the required UN standard of readiness after accomplishing a tedious Peacekeeping Operations Training and Pre-deployment Trainings in the AFP’s
Peacekeeping Operations School. It then flew towards Damascus International Airport and is composed of 49 officers and 278 enlisted personnel. There are six female officers and
22 enlisted women among the group. In the
Philippine participation to UN Missions, so far, this is the contingent with the largest number of female members, a manifestation of changing paradigms emphasizing the value given to gender equality and women empowerment.
The PHILBATT’s 3rd Philippine Contingent to Golan Heights and outgoing commander Lt
Col Sonny L. Gadot handed over the PhilBatt’s colors to the incoming commander and 4th
PCGH head, Lt Col Cornelio H Valencia Jr. The outgoing commander extended his felicitations to the men and women they had worked with in
UNDOF. He said, “As we conclude our mission today, I believe it’s you, our colleagues, fellow warrior-peacekeepers of UNDOF and the other stakeholders who could tell how we performed and how much we have accomplished. But one thing I am certain and I am proud of, is the exemplary dedication and unconditional commitment of every member of the 3 unit mission to pursue the mandate of UNDOF in preserving peace in GOLAN HEIGHTS. All I can say is we have done our best.” rd
Philippine
“REDEEMER” Contingent to Golan Heights in carrying out his respective functions in pursuit of
Philippine Battalion Tour Rotation
UNDOF formally officiated a turnover of command ceremony last 12 May 2011 for the
Philippine Battalion’s fourth round of contingent to Golan Heights from the outgoing 3rd batch of Philippine contingents. The
UNDOF contingent c o m m a n d e r s
(contingents from different nations under UNDOF), guests from UNDOF headquarters, and members of Filipino
Community witnessed the event. The first ever Filipino United
Nations’ Head of
Mission and UNDOF
Commander, Major
UNDOF Commander MGen Natalio Ecarma extended his appreciation to the outgoing group of Philippine contingent for a job well done during their tour of duty, and presented a memento to
LTC Sonny L Gadot. He further exhorted new members of Philippine Battalion to work hard and abide with UNDOF’s “One Mission, One Team and One Goal” effort in fulfilling its mandate.
General Natalio
Ecarma III, AFP was the presiding officer during the ceremony.
Lt Col Cornelio H Valencia Jr accepting the Philbatt’s color as incoming contingent commander of 4th PCGH.
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 47 |

Interesting Times
It is a crucial time in UNDOF’s history when the 4th PCGH assumed the Philippine Battalion’s area of responsibility in the southern part of Golan
Heights. The region has been beset by events leading to a series of unrests following the Arab uprising in some areas of Middle East. UNDOF’s
Areas of Limitation and Area of Separation were not spared of these protests; and these, have not occurred for the last 30 years.
Significant were the events on Nakba Day that means “Day of the Catastrophe,” which ironically is the Arab commemoration of the creation of Israel; and Naksa Day that means
“Day of the Setback,” which is the Arab’s commemoration of the Six-Day War.
On Nakba Day, protests focused in Mahjal
Shams wherein demonstrators crossed the technical fence separating the Golan Heights.
On Naksa Day, there were more demonstrators and protests and attempted incursions occurred in Mahjal Shams and Quinetra. A UN spokesman said that in both events, “the long-held ceasefire was put in jeopardy. The Secretary General called for maximum restraint on all sides and strict observance of international humanitarian law to ensure protection of civilians.”
In these interesting times, PHILBATT enhanced its patrolling system for increased coverage in terms of time and space. From its First Company down to its 2nd Company,
Filipino Victrix warrior-peacekeepers, like other contingents, are doing extra miles to monitor and observe the borders. Indeed, during the Nakba and Naksa days, all warrior peacekeepers of
UNDOF were all over the place observing the turn of events.
The aftermath of the incident required mine clearing operations. The PHILBATT EOD troopers immediately responded to this mandate.
They cleared the stretch where protesters staged their rallies and other critical areas of landmine explosions.
An EOD team, led by Sgt Engcoy (OS) PA bravely cleared these areas; inch by inch they tried to detect unexploded ordnance. According
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to SSg Ancino, “the area is dangerous for people to roam around with undetected unexploded mines, besides UN and civilians frequently pass these crossing gates. It is not easy doing this job; every step you make, everything you touch can lead to danger because we are dealing with old mines that could explode anytime.”
The EOD team was able to recover four pieces of unidentified empty shells of hazardous materials.
These interesting times in the Golan Heights, remain and all these will define the 4th PCGH compared to its predecessors.
Revisiting the Spirit of Philippine
Independence
The 4th PCGH, together with the Philippine
Embassy in Israel and Syria, and the Federation of Filipino Communities in Israel (FFCI), held a series of Independence Day celebrations. These showcased the Filipino’s ingenuity, commitment to peace and freedom, and high regard to its culture and tradition.
Festivities started on 11th Jun 2011 with the
FFCI at the forefront. The Philippine Ambassador to Israel, Her Excellency Petronila P. Garcia with her staff, some 4th PCGH Victrix warriorpeacekeepers and Filipinos from all walks of life gathered at Beit Dani Auditorium with the guest speaker Honorable Mayor Herbert Bautista of
Quezon City Philippines to commemorate the occasion. The event was colorful and festive with various presentations from different organizations under the FFCI. Modern and folk
Filipino dances were performed by FFCI and the
PCHG cultural dancers from the Federation and the 4th PCGH Cultural dancer were presented.
The parade showcasing the different Filipino traditional costumes and booths with Filipino food and cuisine highlighted the occasion.
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 49 |

A heart touching movie “Emir,” written and directed by Chito S. Roño (a renowned film maker), was shown in a theater by the Philippine
It was a dramatic culmination when the 4th
PCGH celebrated the Philippine Independence
Day on June 14 at the hallowed grounds of
Camp Ziouani in Golan Heights. Rain poured so heavy during the activity. The Guest of Honor and Speaker, the Philippine Ambassador to
Israel, Her Excellency Petronila P. Garcia, the first Filipino to become UN Head of Mission,
UNDOF Commander Maj Gen Natalio C
Ecarma III; visiting staff and commanders of contingents from different nations under
UNDOF; guests from Filipino communities; and parading Victrix warrior-peacekeepers, led by
LTC Audie A Mongao, Troop Commander, were all wet during the cold and misty rain. It was a heartwarming scene; it was surreal that inspired every spectator, as it epitomized the boldness in honoring a time treasured event in the Philippine history. As the troops marched in cadence during the pass-in-review, the warrior-peacekeepers from other contingents executed a proud return of salute to the passing Filipino Victrix warriorpeacekeepers under the heavy rain.
The celebration continued as the sun started to peek from the dark clouds. A 15-minute colorful
Filipino Dance ensemble by the 4th PCGH
Cultural Dancers depicted the Filipino culture from its three major islands: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. At the occasion, Victrix warriorpeacekeepers clad in Jusi and Piña Barong
Tagalog and Filipiniana gowns welcomed and impressed UNDOF guests and visitors. To most of them, it was their first time to see the colorful
Filipino traditional costumes. The event was a cultural spectacle highlighting the Philippines as a vibrant nation. The booth of native delicacies with chandeliers of “kiping” to boot was a delicious and mouthful extravaganza; while the booth on tourism was a virtual sight of the Philippine natural wonders. All these brought much pride
A member of the 4th PCGH inspects and detects the parameter border for possible planted explosive devices.
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to every Filipino present, as visitors from all nations under UNDOF marveled at the great cultural display and presentation. The
Philippine Ambassador and UNDOF Force
Commander were brought by 4th PCGH Commander
Lt Col Cornelio H Valencia
Jr inside the PHILBATT
Museum Tradition Hall where participation and accomplishments of all contingents who made in Camp Ziouani their home under UNDOF were arrayed in a gallery. The occasion culminated with lots of pictorials.
The 4th PCGH Commander, LtCol Cornelio H Valencia Jr. passes by a crowd of OFWs after his short talk to the community.
the audience from their seats to join the frenzy
Sharing the Spirit within UNDOF at the graveled dance floor.
Interaction within UNDOF is not limited with work alone. Activities abound where contingents can share with each other their culture, similar military values, and common aspirations in pursuit of global peace. In these venues, the 4th
PCGH participated in various social activities of
UNDOF putting forward the best of Filipino spirit and at the same time learn from the cultures of other contingents.
Reciprocating attendance to invitations and spons oring of events has been the norm. Since its arrival, the 4th PCGH already sponsored two
“Happy Hours” and has successfully become an awaited event in UNDOF. In addition to Filipino hospitality, positive demeanor, and friendly ways, many attended for the music and fun that serve as welcome respites from the daily performance of duty.
In these events, 4th PCGH troopers are encouraged to engage fellow warriorpeacekeepers from other contingents not to practice their English but rather, to build good working relationships in the pursuit of “One
Mission, One Team and One Goal.”
Successful Salvo
The changing security situations during the first two months of 4th PCGH in the mission area had been challenging. The handed over security plans and systems had to be adjusted to address the emerging situation. Nonetheless, troops adapted fast, a testament to the efficacy of the
“One Unit, One Service Concept.” More so, each
Filipino warrior peacekeeper has put into his heart the catchphrase, “Mission First, Service
Above Self, and Do Your Best in the Service of
Peace.”
The PHILBATT Combo rendered English songs to everyone’s enjoyment and sang original Philippine music to introduce Filipino culture and show that music appreciation transcends language. Dance music brought out
The unit has much in store for the next remaining four months in the mission area – surely, with its first successful salvo, it will live up to its high standards of doing things, something that it had already proven.
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 51 |

th
Camp Ziouani, Golan Heights
– The Commanding General of the Philippine Army (CG, PA) Lt
Gen Arturo M. Ortiz and few of his staff paid visit to the strong men and women of the Philippine
Army’s 4 th Philippine Contingent to Golan Heights (4PCGH), which is currently under the United
Nations Disengagement Observer
Force (UNDOF) stationed at the borders of Israel and Syria.
UNDOF Commander, Maj Gen
Natalio C. Ecarma III, AFP and the
4PCGH contingent commander
LTC Cornelio H. Valencia Jr., received the CG PA’s party last
12 September 2011 in Damascus
Airport, Damascus, Syria.
Maj Gen Natalio C Ecarma exchanges a memento with Lt Gen Arturo B Ortiz during the latter’s visit to 4PCGH headquarters.
The CGPA was officially received in a military honor at the UNDOF headquarters by the military host, LTC VALENCIA. A short briefing for CG
PA’s appreciation about UNDOF immediately followed at the UNDOF Pentagon’s conference room. There he was given the time to talk with the 4PCGH officers and key NCOs who comprise the men and women from UNDOF headquarters,
Peacekeeping Staff, and the Philippine Battalion.
A series of line Company visits and talk to the men followed. After his briefing at the UNDOF headquarters and visit to the office of the UNDOF Force Commander and Chief of Mission MGen Ecarma,
General Ortiz talked to the men of
UNDOF Headquarters Company which is led by Cpt Bernard
Samin, and some Peacekeeping
Staff personnel at the 4PCGH’s
Bayanihan Hall. The party immediately moved towards the
PhilBatt’s First “Alamid” Company headquarters passing through the Quinetra Museum, popularly known as “the ruins of Yum Kipur
War”. They were also given the chance to look at the border gates of the Area of Separation which are
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CG, PA tours the facilities being used by PhilBatt personnel.
During the talks to the men,
CG, PA emphasized his thrust to give importance to every soldier under his command, be it in the nearest place or to the farthest area the
Philippine Army has deployed.
He wanted to directly know the situation of his men, feel their situation, and understand the risks they are facing.
He believes that one way of boosting the soldiers’morale is to go down to their places of deployment and directly talk to them, letting them feel their most ranking commander’s presence.
manned by Syrian, Israeli and UN forces. At the
Alamid Company headquarters, the CG PA was given a terrain brief, admin and logistical brief, tour to the facilities used by the PhilBatt personnel and a photo opportunity. Then he talked to the men and women of the Alamid Company.
Later, the party moved towards the 2 nd
“Tamaraw” Company. They crossed along the patrol path or Area of Separation’s demarcation line which are represented by barrels. There the CG, PA and his party gained a firsthand appreciation on what the PhilBatt
Warrior Peacekeepers do in the mission area. Passing through a rugged terrain and peculiar geographic area, the party arrived at the Tamaraw Company. A sequence of activity similar with the Alamid
Company immediately followed which ended the CG, PA’s visit to
Philippine Army troopers stationed in the Bravo or Syria side. The CG,
PA and his party crossed via Syria,
Jordan and Israel International
Airports, and visited Philippine Army troopers in the Alfa or Israel side who are stationed in Camp Ziouani, the home of the Philippine Battalion.
The 4PCGH is a Philippine Army unit. Under the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFPs’),
“One Unit, One Service Concept,” the 76 th Infantry
“VICTRIX” Battalion was chosen to compose the
4 th Philippine Contingent to Golan Heights
(4PCGH) as one of the “best performers among the AFP’s 86 battalions.” It is composed of 49 officers and 278 enlisted personnel. There are six female officers and 22 enlisted women among the group. So far this is the contingent with the largest number of female members.
CG, PA and party visit the area of Separation’s demarcation line while
General Ecarma gives a terrain brief.
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 53 |

• COL EMMANUEL C MARTIN (FA) GSC PA
Source : This was first published in the July 27, 1957 issue of The Saturday Mirror under the title “Father and
Son” written by Godofredo M. Roperos and reprinted in summarized form in the August 1970 issue of The Current
Events Digest, a twice a month publication for intermediate and high school students.
W hen we were kids in the elementary and intermediate grades, we were regaled by legends, lores, myths and stories not only from our own literature but also from the literature of other lands.
Thus, we came to know of the
Ilocano epic Biag ni Lam-Ang, or the origin of Binangonan, or
How Mindanao Got Its Name, as well as the epics of Beowulf from England and The Song of
Roland from France. One of the lores this author remembers well is the ancient Persian story of Sohrab and Rustum who met in battle. Sohrab, not knowing that he is the father of the young Rustum, killed the latter in mortal combat.
Aside from its tragic storyline, this story was made into a film by a Filipino company in the late 1950s starring the “great profile” Leopoldo Salcedo as Sohrab and the matinee idol Armando Goyena (the father of the 1970s beauties
Maritess and Tina Revilla) as the brave Rustum. Something tragically similar happened in the Filipino-American War at the turn of the 20 th Century.
Sometimes life imitates art, with tragic consequences.
The story is about Captain
Charles M. Rockefeller of the 9th US Infantry, a regular combat unit, which fought against the Filipino
Revolutionary forces in the
Filipino-American War of 1899-
1907. Captain Rockefeller was born in 1847 and, at the age of 14, joined the 7th New York
Regiment of the Union Army
Capt Charles M Rockefeller was a recipient of The Medal of Honor, the highest award for valor in action against an enemy force which can be bestowed upon an individual serving in the Armed Services of the United States.
Generally presented to its recipient by the President of the United States of
America in the name of Congress.
against the Confederate Army in the American Civil War of
1861-1865. In those days, heat of battle, some of these teenaged boys actually joined the fighting and with their it was accepted practice for armies and navies to enlist boys as young as 10 or 11 to serve as drummers, kitchen help, wards, cabin boys bravery noted and appreciated by their superiors, they were soon enough sent to join the fighting men in the frontlines of battle. Rockefeller was one of and such mundane duties although often enough, in the those boys whose bravery was not only appreciated but richly
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rewarded. In 1863, at the age of 16, he was commissioned as
Lieutenant and ended the war in 1865 as a First Lieutenant at
18. He was also awarded the
Congressional Medal of Honor for gallantry in action and exemplary devotion to duty.
He was mustered out of the service (or demobilized) in
1866 and married Evangeline
Regan of Winona, Michigan before rejoining the Army.
Assigned to Columbus, Ohio, he served there for three years during which time his wife gave birth to a son whom they named Robert. In 1870, he was assigned to join the staff of the
American Consulate in Hong
Kong and he brought his family with him. His tour of duty there lasted for two years. While in
Hong Kong, they acquired the services of a local woman, Meh
Yen, to serve as the nanny of the young Robert. Meh Yen was an affectionate nanny to her ward and was known to be very fond of the young boy.
Two days before they were to set sail for America, Meh Yen disappeared from the hotel where they were staying along with the Rockefeller’s only son.
Mrs Rockefeller was frantic with grief and an alarm was sent out throughout the colony.
Despite vigorous efforts by the authorities their search yielded nothing. The Rockefellers, who postponed their departure, soon had to leave but they made arrangements with the American Consulate to continue the search and had since maintained contact with them. They still hoped that their son would be returned to them.
Several months passed but the American Consul could not report any progress on the search. A few months later, the broken-hearted
Evangeline died. Charles never remarried and devoted his life in the Army service.
Still, he had not lost hope and remained in contact with their Hong Kong Consulate.
Meanwhile, in 1896, he was promoted to Captain and in
1898, war with Spain broke out and he was sent to Puerto
Rico as member of the staff
US infantry and battery in Caloocan on February 1899 during the war.
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 55 |

of Gen Frederick Dent Grant.
The Treaty of Paris ended the war and, among other things, the Philippines was ceded to the US for US$20 million. When the Americans refused to give an equivocal position regarding Filipino independence, the Filipino
Revolutionary Government and Army became suspicious of American intentions.
The erstwhile allies parted ways and soon enough the
Americans initiated the war which broke out on February
4, 1899 when American troops fired upon and killed Filipino troops crossing the bridge in San Juan near Manila.
Thereupon the Americans immediately launched an offensive to push back the
Filipino forces then ringing
Manila, the seat of power.
Despite the success of the operation, Filipino troops continued to approach Manila from the outskirts and the
Americans had to launch several aggressive patrols to drive away these incursions.
It was on one of these forays that the tragedy that was in the making in the last 27 years unfolded.
It was a hot April day in
1899 and Captain Rockefeller was ordered to take a company of the 9th Infantry to drive out a small force of Filipinos reported to be in Caloocan. In those days, Caloocan was not yet the city that we know now.
Caloocan was a wild country with tall grasses and thick bushes. It was not long before the two forces met and a brief but fierce armed engagement ensued. The Americans noted
that the Filipinos were led by a tall, young white man wearing the Filipino Revolutionary
Army uniform. Hand-to-hand combat ensued and the two commanders faced each other. The highly experienced
Captain Rockefeller, a veteran of the American Civil
War, the Indian Wars and the recent war with Spain, bested the tall white-skinned foreigner and managed to grab the young man’s pistol and killed him with it. With the death of their commander, the Filipinos swiftly retreated.
After a short pursuit, the
Americans buried the dead
Filipinos, gathered their belongings and returned to their camp. Waiting for them were the long awaited mails from home. Captain
Rockefeller received a letter from the American Consul in
Hong Kong.
The letter from the
American Consul had been mailed the year before but because of the war with Spain and the various deployments of his Regiment, it took that long before the letter finally caught up with him in
Caloocan. The letter stated that the Consul was finally able to trace the whereabouts of his son Robert who disappeared with his nanny
Meh Yen in Hong Kong 27 years before in 1872. In 1878,
| 56 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028”

a Chinese woman placed the boy in the care of the Jesuits in a college run by them in Hong
Kong. The woman said the boy’s name was Paul Yen and that he was nine years old. In
1881, the boy was adopted by an Englishman named Henry
Stanhope and Robert became
Paul Stanhope. Robert, also called Paul Stanhope, grew up to be a tall, fine young man and when his foster father
Henry died, young Paul/Robert followed in the footsteps of his foster father and became a successful businessman.
Captain Rockefeller was stunned by what he read.
When they got back to camp, the possessions of the Filipinos killed in the skirmish were was able to piece together examined for any information that Army Intelligence might find useful … and the name of the tall, white young man what really happened using the letter from the American
Consul as his starting point.
who led the Filipinos was Paul
Stanhope! He had killed his
The years 1897 to 1898 saw General Emilio Aguinaldo own son with his own hands!
Fraught with grief, in the next few days his men noticed a sudden change in Captain
Rockefeller’s demeanor.
The normally serious but
General Aguinaldo received occasionally jovial Captain offers from foreigners to serve
Rockefeller, a good leader in his Army and continue the and commander, the soldiers’
Revolution against Spain if and buddy, became morose, when the time comes. It was gloomy and unusually quiet. the end of the 19th century.
Most of the men attributed this During those times it was not to the stress of combat and uncommon for idealistic young the tropical heat. In the next few days Captain Rockefeller and his staff in exile in Hong
Kong in accordance with the
Pact of Biac-na-Bato with the Spanish authorities in men to serve in the armed forces of other countries for
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 57 |

their beliefs, ideals or simply for love of adventure. Paul/
Robert sympathized with the
Filipinos and when Aguinaldo was brought back to the
Philippines by the Americans to assist them in the war against
Spain, Paul/Robert came and joined him in the glorious victory over Spain. When war with America broke out, Paul/
Robert continued to serve in the Filipino Army and led the Filipino troops in several skirmishes with the Americans
… until that fateful day in late
April of 1899.
distraught, Captain Rockefeller disappeared on the night of April
28, 1899. He was supposed to be inspecting the Regiment’s outposts and his superiors and subordinates thought he had lost his way or had spent some time in one of the outposts. A search was mounted but no trace of him could be found.
His superiors now believed he had been captured or killed by the Filipinos but no information could be gathered about him even from among captured
Filipino troops. He was officially listed as missing in action but a few of his comrades began to suspect he deserted but nobody could really say.
It took many years before the mystery of the Captain’s disappearance was solved.
A certain Louis Ramussen, a librarian of the San Francisco him of the past and had since been living in Santa Barbara in
Examiner, came upon some records that include accounts of
America’s wars with Spain and the Philippines. Among these the Honduras. It was believed that he spent the remaining days of his life there.
is a letter written by the missing
Captain Rockefeller to his
Wars have a way in spinning strange but true brother-in-law Terrance Regan in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The stories. This is just one of those tragic footnotes in the bloody letter was written in October
1900, a year and a half since war between the Filipinos and the Americans, footnotes that his disappearance from his
Regiment.
were etched in blood and pain and sorrow. Who can argue
with a father’s grief? Charles spent the rest of his life mourning over the loss of his son … the son whom he lost
In that letter, Charles narrated what happened to
Robert since his disappearance from their hotel in 1872, how the Jesuits took care of him in 1878, Robert’s adoption by
Henry Stanhope three years later, his joining Aguinaldo’s
Army and finally, how he had unknowingly met his own son in mortal combat, and killed him with his own hands. He admitted he had deserted because he wanted to be away from everything that reminded twice. Looking back, we can see some parallels between the lives of Charles and Robert
Rockefeller. Both were driven by ideals when they joined the
Army. Charles was only 14 when he enlisted in the Union
Army because he believed that the United States should remain united and that the
Confederates have no right to secede from the Union. Robert, officially a British citizen, joined the Filipino army in defense of that people’s desire to be free, first from the Spaniards and, later, from the Americans. Both fought well and showed gallantry in combat and were highly regarded by their superiors and peers. Robert died a true hero’s death. In the end, young Robert was truly his father’s son.
| 58 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028”

• Maj Jimmy V Jimenez
Introduction
The Philippine Army company commanders are labeled as the most significant unit leaders of our organization. Most military geniuses and thinkers considered them as the most prized assets in the military arsenal. As such, a company commander should be among the most competent leaders in the Army because he carries the most critical job in the military establishment and endures the burden of combat being at the forefront in our government’s peace and security efforts. Being at the helm of a frontline unit, the company commander is ultimately the military leader that translates the higher headquarters mission into concrete actions. Through his own style of leadership, he executes the Philippine
Army’s plan in accordance with the military doctrines and tactics to accomplish the given mission; in short, he makes things happen.
IPSP and ATR Challenges
As we embarked on our new AFP Internal
Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) “Bayanihan” that embraces critical changes on the way we conduct our military operations, providing clear direction to our tactical commanders in pursuit of a new mission of “winning the peace” has become one of the important priorities of our organization.
Lt Gen Arturo Ortiz addresses troops in one of his visits to the company levels of Army field units.
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 59 |

The Philippine Army is confident that the operational and leadership challenges confronted by company commanders will be ably addressed through the conduct of the Company Commanders’ Symposium.
With the end view of attaining alignment with the higher headquarters intent, there is a need to reinforce the company commanders’ knowledge and understanding on the imperatives of new
AFP campaign that focuses more on civil military operations and development activities and on the components of the Army Transformation
Roadmap (ATR) which aims to transform our organization into a stronger, more dynamic and better institution. Amidst these current transformation program and paradigm shift, motivating and educating our frontline leaders is necessary to enable them to perform their task effectively and efficiently.
Company Commanders’ Symposium- A
Continuing Effort of the Command
With the continued implementation of the
Combat Leadership Enhancement Program
(CLEP), the Philippine Army is confident that it will ably address the operational and leadership challenges currently confronted by our company commanders. In line with this, the Company
Commanders’ Symposium is, once again, presently being conducted PA-wide. The forum, which is annually conducted since CY 2002, is a continuing effort of the command primarily intended to enhance the command and management qualities of our frontline commanders and to sharpen their combat leadership skills. This is a paramount action undertaken by the Army to effectively and efficiently sustain the Philippine
Army companies which are considered as the
“cutting edges” of the AFP’s counterinsurgency campaigns.
Guided by the central theme, “Setting the proper mindset of Company Commanders
Towards Winning the Peace”, this year’s symposium focuses on defining the roles of the tactical commanders in the execution of a new paradigm which calls for the involvement of all stakeholders in defining and shaping the peace and security of our country. The activity endeavors to re-orient the attitude of the unit leaders inorder for them to be aligned with the two core strategies of IPSP “Bayanihan” – the Wholeof-Nation Approach and the People-Centered
| 60 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028”

Approach. Most importantly, the symposium seeks to instill with the company commanders the correct approach in the accomplishment of the new IPSP “Bayanihan” mission. At the same time, the forum underscores that even as we equally pursue other imperatives of the
“Bayanihan” which are mostly non-traditional military undertakings, war fighting remains as the Philippine Army’s core competence.
In fact, among the command’s current thrusts are geared towards achieving excellence in ground operations and responsiveness to the challenges posed by all threats.
Designed to be conducted at the respective headquarters of the ten Philippine infantry divisions and aims a total of 523 company commanders as beneficiaries, the three-day symposium has commenced on 03 August 2011 following the schedule on the right:
The symposium, which equally serves the company commanders of combat, combat support and combat service support units, is lined up with series of relevant lectures by selected HPA G-Staffs representatives, invited military and civilian lecturers, and successful battalion and company commanders. The mode of lectures follows a practical approach to teach and encourage the participants on how to ensure successes in ISO. The activity also includes the presentation of updates on programs and policies by HPA G-Staff and division G-Staff.
CG,PA interacts with company commanders in their respective turfs.
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 61 |

The program is highlighted by the presence of no less than LT General Arturo B Ortiz AFP,
Commanding General, PA who, inspite of his tight schedule fully avails himself of opportunities to interact with the company commander right in their own turfs. He personally shares his insights and delivers his down-to-earth leadership guidance to the young commanders of infantry, intelligence,
CMO and cadre companies as well as OPCON company commanders from SOCOM, LAD, AAR,
Engineer Brigades, and RCDGs.
Conclusion
The Company Commander’s Symposium is the Philippine Army’s approach in improving the leadership qualities of the AFP’s “cutting edges” and instilling in them a proper mindset in the performance of their current roles vis-à-vis IPSP
“Bayanihan”. Without doubt, these objectives will redound to a sustained momentum in our ground operations and to improved efforts to leverage stakeholders’ support.
The symposium provides an interactive and productive forum for all participants to address or resolve common issues and concerns among the company commanders in the different Infantry
Divisions while obtaining firsthand inputs for the higher headquarters towards improving our Army organization.
About the Author
Major Jimmy V Jimenez is a member of
PMA Class 1998. He was a former company commander, 1st Recon Company, 4ID that saw actions in Lanao provinces and CARAGA region.
He also served as former S3, 502 nd Infantry
Brigade, 5ID that covers Cagayan Valley and
Sierra Madre mountain ranges in Northern Luzon.
He is presently the Acting Chief, CRSS Br, OG3,
PA.
PRESS RELEASE
The AFPSLAI Board of Trustees, chaired by AFP
Chief of Staff GEN EDUARDO SL OBAN JR
AFP, recently approved some amendments in the Emergency Loan package of AFPSLAI, such as:
• reduction in loan interest rate by as much as 2.5%;
• increase of maximum loanable amount - from P50,000 to
P200,000 ;
• increase of loan term - from two
(2) years to three (3) years;
The enhancements in the EL aim to make borrowing for the members a lot cheaper since monthly amortizations are more affordable due to longer payment terms and reduced interest rates, which is now the lowest among all financial institutions offering the same product.
This is also in line with AFPSLAI Management’s commitment to continue to provide the members the best and most affordable loan package for their immediate financial needs.
The Emergency Loan, which was introduced in 2002, was offered to give an alternative source of financing for members’ short-term consumption needs.
For more details on the enhanced
Emergency Loan, you may visit the nearest
AFPSLAI Branch in your area.
| 62 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028”

1. What is the Philippine Army Provident
Fund Incorporated?
The Philippine Army Provident Fund, Inc., referred to as PA PRO-FUND, is a non-stock-nonprofit organization which was established on 21
April 2006, primarily to address the well-being of
Philippine Army personnel.
2. Where is the principal office of the
Philippine Army Provident Fund Incorporated located?
The principal office of the Philippine Army
Provident Fund , Inc is located at the Finance
Center, Philippine Army, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig
City.
3. What is the overall objective of the
Philippine Army Provident Fund , Inc?
To readily respond to the emergency needs of all military personnel and regular civilian employees of the Philippine Army by making the said Fund available for loan at a very minimal interest under the following loan exigencies; a. School and education loan for the member or his/her immediate dependent(s); b. Hospitalization loan for the member or his/her immediate dependent(s); c. For minor but immediately needed repair of their houses, and d. Other similar circumstances to be determined by the Board of Trustees.
4. What are the types of loans granted by the
Philippine Army Provident Fund Incorporated?
a. b. c. d. e.
Housing Loan
Educational Loan
Hospitalization Loan
Emergency Loan
Special Loan (for GSIS arrears)
5. Who could avail of the services and benefits of the Philippine Army Provident Fund
Incorporated?
All military personnel and regular civilian employees of the Philippine Army are automatically considered as members, as such, can avail of the services and benefits offered by the Philippine Army Provident Fund , Inc.
6. What are the loan ceiling for Housing,
Education, Hospitalization, Emergency, and
Special Loan?
A bonafide member can avail of Housing
Loan, Hospitalization Loan, Educational Loan, and Emergency Loan with a maximum amount of Php 100,000.00 with an interest of 5% per annum payable in two (2) years.
Granting of loan shall be based on the members’ capacity to pay.
7. What are the requirements or documents needed to avail of the four (4) types of loan?
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 63 |

8. How many loans can be availed of by a member at any given time?
A member of the Philippine Army
Provident Fund Incorporated can avail of a maximum of only one (1) type of loan at any given time. Subsequent loan is granted only after the member has paid at least fifty percent
(50%) of his/her outstanding loan obligation.
9. What is the mode of payment?
Salary deduction is the mode of payment for all types of loan.
10. Is there a prescribed net take home pay to qualify and avail of loan privilege?
The required net take home pay for military personnel is Php 6,900.00 inclusive of the
Subsistence Allowance, and Php 3,000.00 for civilian personnel.
11. Who is held responsible for the governance of the Philippine Army Provident
Fund Incorporated?
A Board of Trustees of the organization shall be responsible for the governance of the
PRO-FUND. It shall promulgate policies and implementing rules and regulations for effective and efficient administration, management, and operation of the Fund. The Board shall be composed of nine (9) Trustees as follows:
Chairman -
Vice-Chairman -
Members -
CG, PA
C, ARMO
G1
C, MFO
FCPA
C, ASPA
C,
CSM,
AJA
PA
13. What is the fund growth of PA PROFUND?
From an initial capital of P 46M in 2006, the fund has grown to P 215.6M
12. Thus far, how many members have benefited from the loaning operations of PA
PROFUND?
As of the close of 1 st qtr 2011, the PA 2011, the PA PROFUND has extended loans to 17,474.
The total amount of loan granted has reached to a close to P 445 M.
| 64 | Philippine Army Vision:“A World-class Army that is a Source of National Pride by 2028”

nd
COMBAT UNITS
Unit
1ID, PA
Best Bde
102 nd Inf Bde
Best Bn
10 th Inf Bn
2ID, PA
201 st Inf Bde Ist Inf Bn
31D, PA
302 nd Inf Bde 61 st Inf Bn
4ID, PA
29 th Inf Bn
5ID, PA
6ID,PA
403 rd Inf Bde
No evaluation result for Best
Bde
602 nd Inf Bde
21 st Inf Bn
7ID, PA
702 nd Inf Bde 81 st Inf Bn
8ID, PA
803 rd Inf Bde 63 rd Inf Bn
9ID, PA
901 st Inf Bde 2 nd Inf Bn
10ID, PA
LAD
SOCOM
FA Bns
Signal Bns
Engr Bns
CMO Bns
MI Bns
FSSU
FSU
Requested for Exemption for 2 nd Qtr CY 2011
1LABn
2Mech Inf Bn
1SFBn
4SRBn
COMBAT SUPPORT UNITS
10FABn
SSMBn, ASR, FBMM
ESBn, 53EBde
2CMO Bn, 2ID, PA
10MIBn, 10ID, PA
COMBAT SERVICE SUPPORT UNITS
1FSSU, ASCOM, PA
4FSU, FC, PA
The Philippine Army’s Core Purpose: “ Serving the People, Securing the Land” | 65 |

Doris Marie N. Pateño, CPA, MBA
It all started you see
With a LtCol named Krisnamurti
Whom I met with glee
At SMC, in the 2011 RAATI.
They strengthened my respect for the Army
The Inspector Colonel and He,
By the smiles and the display
Of Friendship, Respect and Courtesy.
Then, on April Three, upon an invitation texted to me
Aida, Nelia, Ruth and Sweetie
Joined our school President S. Precy
For a camp visit and caving WE all imagined so differently.
We all expected to be
At a camp of make-shift Nipa Hut and Tent built temporarily
But lo and behold, we were so amazed to be
In a little City amidst the forest, bushes and tree.
After breakfast and a brief “tete-a-tete”
We gathered for picture taking with the shirts marked “Friends of the Army”
Then we set a foot to start the journey with our driver Eddie
And Cpt. Angel Luis, Msg Efren, Tsg Jose Delson, Cpl Henry and Pfc Shirley.
With Pfc Eliserio, Striker Rodel, 1Lt Davy, Pfc Haydee and 2Lt Charity
Army’s All who, with the very short time together, were able to display
The virtues and the vow to protect the Country
And The Filipino people with Selfless Dedication and Integrity.
The challenge that Mahayahay Cave posed to a caver, especially one aged fifty
Is a tortuous path, waterfall climbs, deep waters cold and chilly
Spine-tingling walls and crevices filled with bats and spidy
That I have conquered with the very supportive and able “Friends in the Army”.
Their ropes and hands so strong and mighty
Were the weapons to overcome fear and anxiety
That would have enveloped a caver in a situation of zero-visibility
Amidst rocks, stalactites, stalagmites and flashlight batteries almost empty.
Kind, reassuring words of an Army guided me to savor the beauty
Of a scenery, with all its splendor, grandeur and mystery
That was obscured bit-by-bit, slowly and slowly
By the will, to be at the end of the cave, for daylight to see.
How it all happened is a wonder to me
How I’ve survived five hours in a cave with only a bottle of Gatorade when I’m thirsty
How I have accomplished things, such as rappelling in a cave, is amazement...
Really!!
An experience to last a lifetime… with my friends in the Army!