Honoring Service and Sacrifice: 53IB Recognize Retirees, Presents Matapat Eagle Award
The Philippine Army’s 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion (53IB) honored and recognized its retirees and their dependents in a program held today, July 4, 2022, at 53IB Headquarters, Camp Sabido, Guipos, Zamboanga del Sur.
The retirees were:
1. SSg Ruel Calayca – Served for 20 years
2. SSg Arnel Bustamante – 20 years
3. Sgt Saidul Jikirani – 25 years
4. Sgt Ranil Leandado – 20 years
The retirees received the Matapat Eagle Award as a token of gratitude from 53IB for their faithful and meritorious service rendered to the Filipino people and the country which contributed to the success and mission accomplishment of the Philippine Army.
In his message, 53IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera congratulated the retirees for “finishing the race.”
“Congratulations to all of you for finishing the race. Your discipline, obedience, and hard work are what made you successful in your military journey,” said Lt. Col. Herrera.
“Do not forget where you belong. You can now take care and be with your families,” Lt. Col. Herrera added.
The wives of the retirees who were present also expressed their gratitude to the 53IB in their messages and received their respective Certificates of Recognition for their unwavering support during their husbands’ military service.
