APPRECIATING EFFORTS: 53IB, Matapat Troopers Awarded During Tabak Division’s 86th Founding Anniversary

The Philippine Army’s 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion (53IB) was recognized and received a Command Plaque in connection with the 86th Founding Anniversary Celebration of the Army’s 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division (1ID) yesterday, June 1, 2022 at Headquarters, 1ID, Kuta Major Cesar Sang-an, Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur.

The Command Plaque was presented in grateful recognition for the 53IB’s successful conduct of focused military operations (FMO) against the remnants of the defunct Main Regional Guerilla Unit (MRGU) and Guerilla Front Feliciano Alpha (GF-FLEX A) that resulted to the neutralization of key leaders to include the capture and surrender of high-powered and low-powered firearms and other war materials.

Said Plaque was awarded by the Chief of Staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines (CSAFP) Gen. Andres C. Centino and was assisted by 1ID Commander MGen. Gene M. Ponio.

Also, Cpl Joel Viernes of 53IB was awarded the Best Enlisted Personnel for Operations for his excellence, passion, and dedication to duty during 1ID’s Anniversary Celebration.

Meanwhile, 53IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera and Cpl Junrey Gantiao received the Silver Cross Medal for eminently meritorious and valuable achievement during the conduct of Special Intelligence Operations resulting to an encounter against Communist Terrorist Groups in the unit’s AO.

In a statement, Lt. Col. Herrera expressed his gratitude for the recognition and awards.

“In behalf of the 53IB, we would like to express our utmost gratitude for this recognition. The 53IB shall continue its pursuit of excellence and contribute to the mission accomplishment of the Philippine Army,” said Lt. Col. Herrera.