Army's 53IB Celebrates 17th Reactivation Anniversary

By JONG CADION

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PAGADIAN CITY, Zambo. del Sur (Aug. 16, 2019) - Army's 53rd Infantry (MATAPAT) Battalion celebrated its 17th Reactivation Anniversary Friday, August 16,2019, at their headquarters in Guipos, Zamboanga del Sur, military official disclosed.

Capt. Clicnt Antipala, Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) Chief said that the 53rd Infantry Battalion was originally activated on 01 January 1985 as an organic Battalion of the 4th Infantry (DIAMOND) Division.

However Capt. Antipala explained that with the force reduction scheme and the streamlining of the Phillippine Army during the Ramos Presidency, the battalion was deactivated on Febraury 14, 1992.

Antipala added that due to the volatile security situation in the area of the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division in Western Mindanao area, the unit was rectivated on May 1, 2002, after ten years of dormancy.

Lt. Col. Marlowe Patria, the current Battalion Commander, during his speech acknowledged the achievements of the previous commanders and the stakeholders who supported the unit.

The anniversary was also celebrated by  awarding of military and civilian stakeholders who greatly contributed  the unit in accomplishing its  mission.

Hon. Victor Yu, Governor of Zamboanga del Sur and one of the awardee, during his message thanked the unit for their efforts in protecting and serving the constituents of Zamboanga del Sur.

"Rest assured that the local government of Zamboanga del Sur will support 53IB in any endeavor in order to sustain peace and security of the province", said Yu.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Roberto T Ancan, Commander of 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, congratulated 53IB for the reactivation anniversary and for rendering selfless service to the Filipino nation and the people.

"You have shown your innovativeness and distinction in all your efforts in making your area of operations peaceful", said Ancan.

"Let us continue to support the objectives of our government and of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, work hand-in-hand with encompassing loyal service to the over-all achievement of peace and progress of our nation", Ancan concluded. (With DPAO PR and Photos)