Newly-activated Battalion under 1ID undergoes organizational training

By JONG D. CADION

LABANGAN, Zamboanga del Sur (May 3, 2018)  – The 97th (Kalasag Lahi) Battalion under the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army will undergo organizational training starting today, Military Official sad.

Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) Chief Maj. Ronald E. Suscano said that this new Battalion was formally activated in a simple ceremony held at Tabak grandstand on April 16.

       

The Philippine Army has directed the activation and operationalization of 10 additional infantry battalions where 1st Infantry Division is among the recepients, Maj. Suscano added.

DPAO Chief also said that pursuant to General Orders Nr 211, Headquarters, Philippine Army dated March 24, 2018, the 97th Infantry (Kalasag Lahi) Battalion was activated effective April 10, 2018.

97IB is headed by Ltc Rufino L de Leon (Infantry) GSC PA handling 400 soldiers taken from the different line units under 1st ID.  Some of the new privates who graduated from the Candidate Soldier Course last April 5 are now part of the new battalion, he said.

The activation of this new battalion aims to augment the units covering the entire Western Mindanao Region in sustaining the gains of Tabak troopers keeping the peace and development in the area of responsibility.

       

Ltc de Leon expressed gratitude to the Commander of 1ID for entrusting him the leadership as Commandant of the 1st Division Training School as he embarks on a new challenge to lead the 97IB.

“The command has its full trust and confidence on choosing the leadership of Ltc de Leon as the pioneer Commander Officer of 97ib. Always think the welfare of each and everyone of you so as nobody in your unit will be placed in danger. Also, don’t forget the discipline and the prestige of a real Pilipino soldier.” Army’s Premier Tabk Division Chief MGen. Roseller G. Murillo said.

“The organizational training for 97th IB that will start today is designed to enhance the competence and individual skills of every soldier and also to develop their teamwork as a unit. Training builds competence, and competence builds confidence”, he added.