Camp Melchor F. Dela Cruz, Gamu, Isabela
September 18, 2018

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte lauded the role of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in its operations against communist rebels and terrorists as he visited the 5th Infantry Division (5ID) of the Philippine Army at the Camp Melchor F. Dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela.

In his message to the Star Troopers of 5ID, he mentioned that the government is winning the operations against the communist rebels like the New People’s Army (NPA) with various members of the rebel group surrendering to the government to start anew in accordance with the law.

“Today, I stand proud as I speak before some of the most courageous men and women of our country. Your unwavering dedication to duty is a testament to your commitment to protect our people and a reminder of your sworn oath to defend this nation,” he said.

“With your bravery and patriotism, I am optimistic that we will one day defeat all threats to our sovereignty, improve the lives of our people, and strengthen the foundation of a more inclusive and progressive tomorrow,” he added.

In the course of the program, the Commander-in-Chief bestowed the Order of Lapu-Lapu on some of the wounded-in-action (WIA) soldiers, namely, PFC Sergio Cawad, PFC Jaymar Oligo, Sgt. Arnold Mangawit, and Sgt. Reynald Tumangil.

President Duterte also witnessed the turnover of the four-wheel drive tractor from the Department of Agriculture for the use of 5ID.

Joining the President during the event were Presidential Adviser for Military Affairs Secretary Arthur Tabaquero, AFP Chief of Staff (CSAFP) General Carlito Galvez, Commanding General of the Philippine Army (CGPA) Major General Rolando Bautista, and Commander of the Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) Major General Emmanuel Salamat.