The Iloilo Provincial Government’s flag-raising ceremony this morning was made especially memorable by the presence of distinguished officials from the Philippine Army and the Philippine National Police.
The highlight of the event was the recognition of three high-ranking officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) -- all proud Ilonggos -- whose exemplary service has brought immense pride and honor to the Province of Iloilo.
The awardees are:
Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete, 67th Commanding General of the Philippine Army, hails from Calinog and is an alumnus of West Visayas State University.
Lt. Gen. Luis Rex Bergante, 14th Commander of the AFP Eastern Mindanao Command, is from Jaro, Iloilo City and a graduate of Central Philippine University.
Lt. Gen. Jimmy Larida, 51st Vice Chief of Staff of the AFP, comes from Dueñas and is also a proud alumnus of Central Philippine University.
Each awardee received a plaque of recognition and a copy of the Resolution of Commendation passed by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, in honor of their unwavering dedication to national service.
The awarding was led by Governor Arthur Defensor, Jr., Vice Governor Nathalie Ann Debuque, Provincial Administrator Raul Banias, and Board Members Rolando Distura, Rica Jane Garin, Jo Ann Germinanda, and June Mondejar.
Also in attendance were: Maj. Gen. Michael Samson, Commander of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID), Brig. Gen. Nhel Richard Patricio, Commander of the 301st Infantry Brigade, PBGen. Josefino Ligan, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 6, PCol. Bayani Razalan, Director of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office, and Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Provincial Director Carmelo Orbista.
This celebration of Ilonggo excellence in national defense stands as a testament to the province’s enduring contribution to the country’s peace and security.
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