MATAPAT@36: 53IB Receives Marawi Liberation Streamer

The Philippine Army’s 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion was bestowed with “Award of the Marawi Liberation Streamer” during a ceremonial program on January 22, 2020 at at Camp Maj. David P. Sabido, Guipos town, Zamboanga del Sur.

The activity was part of 53IB’s 36th Founding Anniversary celebrations with the theme: “MATAPAT@36: Remember with Gratitude, Renew with Passion.”

The Marawi Liberation Streamer was awarded to the 53IB for eminently meritorious and invaluable contribution to the accomplishment of the over-all mission during the Marawi Campaign, which resulted to the rescue of the hostages, neutralization of the ISIS-Maute Terrorist Group, and the physical liberation of Marawi City.

Former Commanding General of the Philippine Army and now the Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Lt. Gen. Rolando Joselito Bautista along with Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Mindanao Commander Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division Commander Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, and 102nd Infantry “Igsoon” Brigade Commander Brig, Gen. Leonel Nicolas led the awarding ceremony.

“With these achievements, the 53IB earned distinct credit upon itself and upheld the highest standard not only of the Philippine Army but for the Armed Forces of the Philippines as well,” Sec. Bautista said.

53Ib Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera received the Marawi Liberation Streamer.