Dengue Awareness and Prevention Advocacy Teams (DAPAT)

BATTALION COMMANDER: MAASIM, Sarangani (October 4, 2010) – Major Adolfo Espuelas Jr. (right), battalion commander of 73rd Infantry Battalion, leads his troops for the anti-dengue clean-up drive at barangays Poblacion and Colon Saturday, October 2. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE/Ritchi Tongo)

ANTI-DENGUE CLEAN-UP DRIVE: MAASIM, Sarangani (October 4, 2010) – Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon leads the anti-dengue clean-up drive together with Integrated Barangay Defense Force Volunteers, 73rd Infantry Battalion, Maasim police and community volunteers Saturday, October 2. Maasim has a total of 63 dengue cases with one fatality recorded. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE/Ritchi Tongo)

ANTI-DENGUE ORIENTATION: MAASIM, Sarangani (October 4, 2010) – Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon gives his words of encouragement to the 291 volunteers composed of soldiers from 73rd Infantry Battalion, staff from Vice Governor’s Office, Maasim police, Integrated Barangay Defense Force and community volunteers Saturday, October 2. Out of the 63 dengue cases with one fatality recorded in Maasim, 27 of these are from barangay Poblacion and 17 in barangay Colon. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE/Ritchi Tongo)

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS: MAASIM, Sarangani (October 4, 2010) – Volunteers join the clean-up drive and anti-dengue campaign activities at barangays Poblacion and Colon in cooperation with the Office of the Vice Governor, 73rd Infantry Battalion, Maasim police, Integrated Barangay Defense Force and community volunteers Saturday, October 2. Leaflets were given to the community for information about dengue. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE/Ritchi Tongo)

Courtesy Call

COURTESY CALL: MAITUM, Sarangani (October 6, 2010) - Major Adolfo Espuelas Jr. (2nd from right), the new commander of the 73rd Infantry Battalion, pays a courtesy call on Mayor  Elsie Perrett in her office Monday, October 4. With the battalion commander are 1Lt. Rio Gammad, company commander of Charlie Company, and 2Lt. Karim. Mayor Perrett updated the officers on the peace and order situation of the municipality. (Beth Ramos-Palma Gil/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

Despedida Boodlefight in New La Union, Maitum

BONDING TIME: MAITUM, Sarangani (October 1, 2010) - Former  battalion commander Lt. Col. Edgardo de Leon, the new battalion commander Major Adolfo Espuelas Jr., and officers of 73rd Infantry Battalion share a "boodle  fight" during their bonding time at New La Union river tubing resort during the weekend.  A junior officer said they "have not done this for a long time.  To take a short break from our peacekeeping job with our senior officers and our colleagues is rare opportunity. We are glad we were given this opportunity." (Beth Ramos-Palma Gil/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

We Survived! White Water Tubing in Maitum

ARMY TOURISTS: MAITUM, Sarangani (October 1, 2010) – Officers and men of the Philippine Army 73rd Infantry Battalion led by former battalion commander Lt. Col. Edgardo de Leon and new battalion commander  Major Adolfo Espuelas Jr. take time to enjoy the river tubing challenge in barangay New La Union during the weekend. (Beth Ramos-Palma Gil/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

10th Division Commander and Vice Gov Steve Solon

MAJOR GENERAL SEGOVIA: MAASIM, Sarangani (October 3, 2010) – Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon greets Major General Jorge Segovia, commander of 10th Infantry Division of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, during the change of command ceremony of the 73rd Infantry Battalion Thursday, September 30. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE/Bon-Bon Quiño)

Relinquishment Speech - LTC Edgardo De Leon

 

Continuing My Watch, From A Distance

Relinquishment Speech of LTC Edgardo De Leon Infantry (GSC) PA

Tampuan Brgy Kamanga, Maasim, Saranggani Province

30 September 2010

Yesterday, as I took the chance of sharing a ride with Vice Governor Steve to attend the RPOC meeting in Koronadal, suddenly Gov Migs called, I thought he is to give us pointers for the meeting, yun pala only to give me a warning “hwag kang umiyak bukas ha!” I laughed to the surprise of the Vice Gov, then I replied “No Sir”. Well, I’ll try to comply sir. But I wont bet.

Last night, as I sat down my desk and prepare my reliquishment speech, I was staring for so long on my laptop, I dont know really how to start. I’ve drafted speeches for my former bosses, pero mahirap pala kapag sariling speech mo na ang isusulat mo, lalo pa may warning na hwag iiyak.

Blank stare for almost half an hour, then I thought of searching my files of my assumption speech so I could exactly quote the words I said when I set my vision, exactly 2 years and 25 days ago.

In my assumption speech I have envisioned for “73rd IB to remain as a highly disciplined unit that continually accomplishes its mission, with the highest degree of excellence”. Sa disiplina, binanggit ko na “ang bawat sundalo ng 73rd ay dapat manatiling ehemplo at modelo ng disiplina, hindi lamang modelo ng kapwa sundalo, kundi modelo ng mamamayan, lalo na ng mga kabataan. Kaya kung nandito kayo nung aming Anniversary last July 16, ang aming tema ay “Tropang 73rd: Huwaran ng Mamamayan sa Disiplina at Pagkamakabayan”. On mission accomplishment, I mentioned that I will not fail  my superiors and the people of Sarangani, on their countless expectations on what we can offer in the name of peace and development.” I said that in the midst of an ongoing combat operations, in the midst of hundreds of frighthened and exhausted evacuees lining up the roads of Maasim.

Now as I am about to relinquish command of this Battalion, I asked myself, “have I accomplished the goals I’ve set?” The judgment is yours. Your silence would mean I did not, but your applause would mean did! (Audience responded with big round of applause)

Maraming Salamat po. (Kinabahan ako dun, akala ko walang mag react)

Thank you for the positive response. But I would like to acknowledge the fact that the goals I have set will not be accomplished without the help of each and every member of the Battalion. My dynamic staff, past and present, the company commanders, the platoon leaders, the platoon sergeants, the squad leaders, and most especially each infantryman of the squads who are in the forefront of the battles. Every soldier counts, that is the Army way. Even the confused newly enlisted private has contributed in the accomplishment of the unit’s goals. And with that I asked you, to once again offer your priceless applause to each and every member of 73rd IB. (Audience's applause followed). Sa tropang 73rd, muli, maraming salamat, kung may na bawl-out ako sa inyo. Pasensya na, trabaho lang yun, walang personalan. Di ba John? Claire? Reno? Adolf, take charge!

Today, allow me to honor our troopers who offered their lives for the people of Sarangani: PFC Ariel Bayawanon who was killed in the hills of Brgy Pananag, Maasim as he ferociously fought against those who attacked the Maasim town hall. PFC Juny Gustilo and PFC Romel Dalayap who were victims of roadside bomb in Brgy Daliao, Maasim on their way back from escorting troops to Maitum. At tsaka ang anim na sundalong nasugatan habang nagtataboy sa mga terroristang NPA na namemerwisyo sa bayan ng Alabel at Malapatan. Through the  sacrifices of our soldiers, LMG encampment was overran, peace and order restored, evacuees have returned to their homes, communist terrorists were driven away, such that there are no more PTCs during elections, and best of all, people’s level of trust and confidence on the government was raised.

As we honor are fallen and living heroes, I also would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the local government units from the province to the municipal levels. The Governor and his Kalinaw Sarangani unit, Vice Governor, Board members, Deputy Governor, and all the Mayors, Vice Mayors, municipal councilors, past and present. And most especially the Brgy Captains. Salamat po sa inyong mga tulong at pagtitiwala sa amin. Hindi ko malilimutan ang mga pinagsamahan natin, lalo na ang mga boodlefight sa inyong mga barangay. Sa mga kasapi ng Brgy Defense Forces, ang inyong pagiging boluntaryo ay napakadakila na syang nagpapahiwatig ng tunay na malasakit sa inyong bayan. Maraming salamat sa inyong kooperasyon.

As we pursue our goals, we had our limitations. But we didnt allow our limitations to stop us, we tapped the involvement of NGOs, institutions, and individuals who contributed much to our efforts in bringing services to remote areas through our community outreach programs. Services that made the people feel they are not neglected. Services that made the people realize there is no reason to rebel, no reason to go against the military. Our gratitude to Hearts & Brains Incorporated under Dr Roel Cagape; Kapayapaan Kapatid Council of Fr Angel and Fr Joy; CONAL Holdings; RD Foundation; San Andres Fishing; Alcantara Foundation; KCC Mall; Dole Phils; SMI; Atty Falgui; Lito Makalipay; Partridge Family; Alex Alcantara; Manang Beth Ramos; at lalo na kay Mam Sol Manangquil, the foster sister to all of us. Your contributions have gone a long way to the enhancement of peace and stability of Sarangani and Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat.

To the members of the tri-media, thank you for being our conduit in bringing our message of peace to the public. You are also instrumental in making us more proud members of 73rd IB. Gusto ko rin pasalamatan si Charmaine Gammad, the wife of Lt Rio Gammad for writing our Battalion Hymn in accordance with her impression of our soldiers. And to Kagawad Jess Bascuna of Maitum for his musical composition. Now our soldiers are prouder members of the Battalion.

My personal thanks also to my superior officers for giving me the chance of commanding the Battalion, which incidentally the battalion where I spent my junior officer days. In particular, to former 10ID Commanders, General Fojas, General Mapagu, and Gen Holganza. Also to the incumbent Division Commander, Major General Jorge Valbuena Segovia for the trust and confidence in designating me as the Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations. And most especially to our Brigade Commander Col Rainier Cruz for the all-out support and continuing guidance that made our every endeavor a sure success. And above all to the Almighty God, for all the blessings that were showered upon me and my troopers.

It is really sad to bid goodbye to the Battalion where I spent my field duties since I was a Lieutenant. Wala na akong pagkakataon pa na ma-assigned pang muli sa 73rd IB. But nonetheless, the sadness was compensated with the joy of knowing that the Battalion will be in good hands. With his competence and exemplary leadership qualities, I am confident that the 73rd IB would continue to be a Battalion of Excellence under the stewardship of my successor, Major Espuelas. To you I say good luck, and take charge!

To the officers, men and women of the 73rd Infantry Battalion, ipagpatuloy nyo ang ating magagandang simulain at adhikain. Tulungan nyo si Maj Espuelas ng higit pa sa pagtulung na ibinigay nyo sa akin.

To the people of Sarangani Province and Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat, I assure you that the 73rd IB will remain as Your Soldier, Your Defender, Your True Friend. As I leave this area and assume my post as Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations, I will continue to watch and secure you... FROM A DISTANCE.

Change of Command Ceremony

10TH ID COMMANDER

MAASIM, Sarangani (October 1, 2010) – Outgoing battalion commander Lt. Col. Edgardo De Leon welcomes Major General Jorge Segovia, commander of the 10th Infantry Division, after trooping the line at the change of command ceremony Thursday, September 30, of the 73rd Infantry Battalion. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

MILITARY RECEPTION: MAASIM, Sarangani (October 3, 2010) – Governor Migs Dominguez and Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon are received by officials of Joint Task Force Gensan and International Monitoring Team from Malaysia before the change of command ceremony of 73rd Infantry Battalion from Lt. Col. Edgardo De Leon to Major Adolfo Espuelas Jr. Thursday, September 30. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE/Bon-Bon Quiño)

GOVERNOR'S MEMENTO FOR PEACE

MAASIM, Sarangani (October 1, 2010) – Governor Migs Dominguez gives a memento for peace to outgoing battalion commander Lt. Col. Edgardo De Leon at the 73rd Infantry Division change of command ceremony Thursday, September 30, as an epitome of an ideal soldier of peace. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

MEMENTO FOR PEACE

MAASIM, Sarangani (October 1, 2010) – Kalinaw Sarangani program manager Jocelyn Lambac-Kanda gives a memento of peace partnership with outgoing battalion commander Lt. Col. Edgardo De Leon at the change of command ceremony Thursday, September 30. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

ASSUMPTION OF COMMAND

MAASIM, Sarangani (October 1, 2010) – Major Adolfo Espuelas, Jr. assumes the post of Lt. Col. Edgardo De Leon as commander of the 73rd (Neutralizer) Infantry Battalion at the change of command ceremony Thursday, September 30. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

10TH ID MARCHING BAND

MAASIM, Sarangani (October 1, 2010) – Marching band from the 10th Infantry Division plays a military hymn during the change of command ceremony at the 73rd (Neutralizer) Infantry Battalion headquarters Thursday, September 30. “Peacemaker” Lt. Col. Edgardo De Leon relinquished his post as battalion commander to Major Adolfo Espuelas, Jr. with Major General Jorge Segovia, commander of the 10th Infantry Division, as guest of honor and presiding officer. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

73IB Commander Leaves Legacy of Peace

LTC EDGARDO DE LEON THE PEACEMAKER  :: MAASIM, Sarangani (October 1, 2010) – Lt. Col. Edgardo De Leon “the peacemaker” bids his men goodbye as he relinquished his post as battalion commander to Major Adolfo Espuelas, Jr. at the change of command ceremony at the 73rd (Neutralizer) Infantry Battalion headquarters Thursday, September 30. De Leon is the new assistant chief of staff for operations of the 10th Infantry Division in Panacan, Davao City. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

MAASIM, Sarangani (October 1, 2010) – Called by the communities as peacemaker, Lt. Col. Edgardo De Leon relinquished his post as commander of the 73rd Infantry Battalion in a change of command ceremony Thursday (September 30). De Leon was called “the peacemaker” in communities where his troops conducted medical missions and civic action.

“He has performed beyond our expectations,” 10th Infantry Division Commander Major General Jorge Segovia, guest of honor, said. “He has been a very successful battalion commander and an asset to the division, and most importantly, he did not fail the people of Sarangani and has promoted the unity in diversity and the people’s peaceful co-existence,” Segovia said.

Governor Migs Dominguez commended De Leon and his troops “for making our people sleep soundly at night”. The governor recalled 73rd IB’s arrival in the province two years ago when the province was in social disturbance particularly the town of Maasim which was attacked by lawless members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Just hours later, the troops conducted a clearing operation in the mountains of Pananag to run after the perpetrators. “Peace doesn’t only mean the silencing of our guns,” Dominguez said. “We, leaders teach our community the value of sincerity, educate them, and teach them to love. Most importantly, we were able to bring back the trust of the people and rebuild the communities.” 

“You really changed the image of the old soldier feared by children,” Dr. Ruel Cagape of the Hearts and Brains said. The Hearts and Brains and Sarangani Kalinaw Unit are among the partners of the 73rd IB in medical missions and community outreach programs.

De Leon was commended by officials for his outstanding administrative and operational performances, upholding the morale of his troops, intelligence and security operations and accomplishments, and even managing the camp facilities. The 73rd (Neutralizer) IB received the Presidential Unit Citation Badge after its security operations in Maguindanao in the midst of a state of martial law to run after the suspects responsible for the Philippines’ largest media killing November last year.

“When I assumed this post two years ago, I envisioned the battalion to remain as highly disciplined (soldiers) with the highest degree of excellence,” De Leon said. “Allow me to honor our troops who defended Sarangani in the midst of community disturbances. Each and every infantry man has been very important in accomplishing our mission. Thank you for not allowing our limitations to stop us. Showing our people our services and extended our accomplishments even to Palimbang (Sultan Kudarat), there is no reason to rebel,” De Leon added. De Leon will assume office as assistant chief of staff for operations (G3) at the 10th ID headquarters in Panacan, Davao City.

“Rest assured that I will try to boot all my best to this battalion with optimism,” Major Adolfo Espuelas said. Espuelas assumed De Leon’s post as the new battalion commander. “I’ve seen synergy at work and I see Sarangani to be the next big thing in Mindanao,” Espuelas said. “We can win without firing a single shot. I believe everything ends up in the negotiating table.” (Russtum G. Pelima/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)