7ID has a new commander

16 Feb 19 7ID has a new commander

FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila- The Philippine Army installed a new commander for the 7th Infantry “Kaugnay” Division (7ID) on Thursday, February 14, 2019 in a simple turn-over rite held at 7ID, Grandstand, Fort Ramon Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija.

The Change of Command Ceremony was presided by Lt. Gen. Macairog S. Alberto, the Commanding General, Philippine Army. Brig. Gen. Lenard T. Agustin formally assumed as the 28th Commander of the 7ID vice Maj. Gen. Filemon T. Santos Jr. who also just recently assumed as Commander of Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM).

The 7th Infantry Division has been in the frontline of curbing CPP-NPA terrorists in Central Luzon. It has to its credit significant accomplishments that contributed to the attainment of relative tranquility in its assigned area of responsibility. A good number of former rebels and militias surrendered through the Community Support Program of the Division and availed the government Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program. Further, a total of 39 affected barangays were cleared and notably, the whole province of Pangasinan was recently declared as such and ready for further development.

Brig. Gen. Agustin is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Sinagtala” Class of 1986. He is a well-rounded officer and commanded various units including two battalions namely 20th Infantry “We Lead” Battalion and 63rd Infantry “Innovator” Battalion in Eastern Visayas region. He also commanded the 201st Infantry “Kabalikat” Brigade under the 2nd Infantry Division in Southern Luzon. Prior to his new post, he was designated as the Assistant Division Commander of 7ID.

In his assumption speech Brig. Gen. Agustin underscores the importance of coordination and collaboration with various sectors and stakeholders in addressing the long time problem of insurgency in the country. He affirmed to intensify their effort and focus that will lead to the total decimation of armed terrorists in their area of jurisdiction which will pave the way for the establishment of a peaceful environment conducive for development.

Further, he expressed his gratitude for the trust and confidence bestowed upon him by the Command. He vowed to continue what his predecessor had started in pursuit of peace and development thrust of the government under the direction of the Northern Luzon Command.

Lt. Gen. Alberto for his part expressed his gratitude to Maj. Gen. Santos Jr. for leading the 7ID with excellence. He also congratulated Brig. Gen. Agustin and urged the Kaugnay troopers to extend the same cooperation to their new commander. He is very optimistic that with the splendid background and expertise of Brig. Gen. Agustin, he will make the difference for the 7ID.

“We have the momentum and motivation, we will achieve and we will succeed. Moreover, we have the support of the Commander-in-Chief and the Filipino citizenry, hence, it is now the right time to give our best and win the peace. I promised that you also have the full support of the Army leadership”, he added. #

16 Feb 19 7ID has a new commander 2

16 Feb 19 7ID has a new commander 3