MATAPAT@36: 53IB Holds Book Signing with Former JTF Marawi Ground Commanders
The Philippine Army’s 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion held a book-signing event with former Joint Task Force Marawi Ground Commanders in a simple program 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.”
Former JTF Marawi Commander and now the Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rolando Joselito Bautista, Armed Force of the Philippines Western Mindanao Commander Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., and 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division Commander Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio led the commemorative signing of the Marawi and Beyond book.
The Marawi and Beyond book was published during the commandership of then Lt. Gen. Bautista as Commanding General of the Philippine Army in 2018.
The book is a compendium of photos and narratives of the accomplishments of the government forces in the Battle of Marawi from May 23 to October 15, 2017.
“The Marawi and Beyond book immortalizes the achievements of our government security forces during the Marawi campaign against the ISIS-Maute Terrorist Group. Our soldiers’ sacrifices and dedication in the Battle of Marawi are significant parts of Philippine history,” Sec. Bautista said.
“We will always remember that our soldiers have fulfilled and will always fulfill their sworn duty to serve the Filipino people and secure our beloved country,” Lt. Gen. Vinluan said.
“It is a privilege to be a part of the Philippine Army’s accomplishments in bringing back peace in Marawi City,” Maj. Gen. Ponio said.
Lt. Col. Herrera served as Assistant Chief of Staff for Civil-Military Operations (G7) of JTF Marawi during the crisis.
A series of Marawi Heroes 3 4 ft. x 3 ft. oil on canvas painting by Juan Paolo Magtira, a bachelor’s degree holder of Visual Communications from the College of Fine Arts, University of the Philippine Diliman was also signed by the former JTF Marawi Ground Commanders.
102nd Infantry “Igsoon” Brigade Commander Brig, Gen. Leonel Nicolas, Zamboanga del Sur Governor Victor Yu, and ZDS 2nd District Board Member John Regala were also present during the program.