Relinquishment Speech of LT GEN VICTOR S IBRADO AFP During the 51st Change of Command of the Philippine Army HPA Grandstand Fort Andres Bonifacio Metro Manila 04 MAY 2009 (Appropriate greetings) Exactly 355 days ago (or 10 days short of one year), I assumed command of the Philippine Army. My tour of duty has been exciting and challenging, but nevertheless fulfilling. The dedication of the men and women who compose Team Army today has kept us on track and enabled us to effectively support our troops in successfully performing our mandated mission of protecting the people and the nation. Whatever Team Army has accomplished at this point was the collective effort of the entire team - from the hardworking and dynamic staff, our committed field and support unit commanders, the reliable non-commissioned officers, our dedicated troops in the frontlines, and our civilian employees. The men and women of Team Army, past and present, all helped create an environment that promoted discipline, meritocracy, excellence, and teamwork in the army. Together, we all focused our efforts in steering the Command to be "a professional, capable and responsive Army that is truly a source of national pride." Together, we worked towards the fulfillment of our motto to be, "AT YOUR SERVICE ACROSS THE LAND." The Army is forever evolving, but with all humility, I am proud to say that together with the other major services, the Philippine Army has done its share in the enhancement of the country's political stability, economic development, and social harmony. To my esteemed successor, LT GEN DELFIN BANGIT, I assure you of the competence, the commitment to serve, and the dedication of the men and women of the Philippine Army. I am proud to tell you that they are exponents of excellence, and they will be with you, all the way, to venture into the vast horizon of service to our country and our people. To team Army, I enjoin everyone to work even harder and with a compelling sense of urgency to accomplish our mandate. It is not only our credibility as members of the Armed Forces which is at stake, it is the peace and order and stability of this country and its future generations. Furthermore, I ask all of you to continue to remain focused on the realization of our common vision for the Army, one that is fully capable of performing its mandate, an Army that commands respect, and an Army that this nation can truly be proud of. At bilang pagtatapos ng aking pananalita, nais kong samantalahin ang pagkakataong ito upang magpasalamat sa lahat ng opisyal, sundalo at kawaning sibilyan na bumubuo ng Team Army, at sa inyong lahat na naririto ngayon. Sa ngalan ng aking pamilya, ako ay taos pusong nagpapasalamat. Makakaasa kayo na paglilingkuran ko kayo at ang ating sambayanan sa abot ng aking makakaya. Sa inyong lahat, maraming, maraming salamat! Mabuhay ang Team Army! Mabuhay ang Team AFP!