BACOLOD CITY, Negros Occidental, Philippines – The 302nd Infantry Achiever Brigade installed on Tuesday, 20 October its new commander in a change of command ceremony held at the Headquarters, 302nd Brigade, Camp Leon Kilat, Tanjay City, Negros Oriental.
The former Chief of the Unified Command Staff (CUCS) of the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Col. Leonardo I Peña replaced Brig. Gen. Noel T. Baluyan who led the brigade for one year and two months.
Baluyan will take post as the new Assistant Division Commander at Camp Peralta, Jamindan, Capiz.
He described his stint as the former Achiever commander as “the most socially enriching, fulfilling, rewarding and exciting assignment” he has ever had.
Peña assured the public that he will likewise be a team player in achieving the ultimate goal of peace and progress in Negros Island.
“God has a plan and vision for me to fulfill as I humbly assume this position to be of service to the Filipino people of Visayas, particularly, Negros Island. Rest assured that I will be a team player in achieving our ultimate goal of peace and progress in this part of our country,” the new commander said.
Peña added that the brigade will continue to strengthen their cooperation with government agencies and partner stakeholders to realize inclusive peace and pursue localized peace initiatives and community support programs.
Baluyan also thanked all the stakeholders, the governor, the local chief executives, local government units, the Philippine National Police counterparts, his troops and the higher Headquarters that he has worked with that enabled him to achieve the mission and vision of the brigade.
Meanwhile, keynote speaker and Presiding Officer Major General Eric Vinoya, the commander of the Joint Task Force Spearhead and the 32nd commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, thanked and congratulated Baluyan for the remarkable services he has rendered to the 3rd Infantry Division and welcomed Peña as the newly installed brigade commander.
Vinoya said that he has his full trust and confidence that Peña will lead the brigade with the same enthusiasm and commitment as with Baluyan.
