ILOILO CITY – The Army has named new officers to lead the two battalions based in Panay Island.

MAJOR Gen. Marion Sison, 3rd ID commander, receives a token from Lt. Col. Vicel Jan Garsuta of the 12th Infantry Battalion. (Army 3rd ID photo)
The 3rd Infantry Division has urged Lt. Col. Jovert Pimentel of the 82nd Infantry Battalion and Lt. Col. Vicel Jan Garsuta of the 12th IB – to strengthen partnerships to dismantle the New People’s Army (NPA) and end communist insurgency.
“It is essential to recognize that the resolution (to communist insurgency) not only requires military action, but also crucial to coordinate, cooperate, and maintain open communication with our partners,” said Major Gen. Marion Sison, 3rd ID commander.
“We cannot accomplish this mission without the support and collaboration of our stakeholders and local chief executives. They play a vital role in helping us bring an end to the insurgency in Panay,” Sison added.
Sison presided over the change of command ceremony for the 82nd and 12th IBs on Monday, February 5.
Pimentel replaced Col. Cliford Catubigan. Garsuta replaced Lt. Col. Antonio Timbal on Tuesday, February 6.
The 82nd is based in Janiuay town, Iloilo province while the 12th IB is in Calinog town, Iloilo.