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AFP activates Joint Task Force 'Bicolandia'

AFP activates Joint Task Force 'Bicolandia'

By Francine Ciasico

By the Philippine News Agency The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) formally activated its Joint Task Force "Bicolandia" yesterday in line with the ongoing efforts to secure the entire Bicol Region.

Maj. General Carlito Galvez, commander of the Western Mindanao Command. (Keith Bacongco)

Maj. General Carlito Galvez (Keith Bacongco / MANILA BULLETIN) Col. Noel Detoyato, AFP public affairs office chief, said the move aims to integrate air, sea, and land units in the area to fully secure the entire Bicol Region, including the offshore island provinces of Masbate and Catanduanes. "The formal activation of the Joint Task Force 'Bicolandia' is a clear indication of our persistence to usher in the best improvements for the AFP and is a concrete step that we have taken to further fortify the quest of the AFP, particularly the Southern Luzon Command, to bring and sustain peace and security in the Bicol Region," AFP chief of staff Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr. said during yesterday's activation ceremonies. Joint Task Force "Bicolandia" will be headed by 9th Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Jesus Manangquil Jr. It will take under its helm the division and supported by the Tactical Operations Group 5 and the Naval Forces Southern Luzon. The unit will be under the direct command and supervision of Southern Luzon Command chief Lt. Gen. Danilo Pamonag, Detoyato added. "'Bicolandia' will perform the vital task of protecting from security threats the region's budding economic landscape, vast agricultural sector, and popular tourist hubs, as well as in orchestrating joint operations in response to emergency situations," he stressed.

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