BACOLOD CITY – Mayor Javier Miguel “Javi” Benitez of Victorias City, Negros Occidental was recently inducted as a reservist of the Philippine Army.

Major Gen. Marion Sison, commander of the Army 3rd Infantry Division (ID), led the donning of ranks to newly enlisted Army reservists during the 38th founding anniversary of the 303rd Infantry Brigade (IBde) with the theme “Sambisig na Lakas, Sandigan tungo sa Mapayapa at Maunlad na Sambayanan” in Camp Major Nelson Gerona in Barangay Minoyan, Murcia, Negros Occidental on July 12.

Benitez said the calling to serve cannot be more rewarding as he received this privilege of not only protecting and representing the country but also assist during calamities and disasters and socio-economic development.

MAJOR Gen. Marion Sison, commander of the Army 3rd Infantry Division (ID), led the donning of ranks to Victorias City, Negros Occidental Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez, one of the newly enlisted Army reservists, during the 38th founding anniversary of the 303rd Infantry Brigade (IBde) in Camp Major Nelson Gerona in Barangay Minoyan, Murcia, Negros Occidental town on July 12. (Photo courtesy of Mayor Javi Benitez Facebook)

He said that growing up, he was always in awe of soldiers' great altruism, bravery, and courage. “It is a great honor, joy, and pride to fulfill the highest civic duty by joining the Philippine military,” Benitez said.

Benitez thanked everyone who helped him achieve this milestone.  “What an honor to have this privilege to fulfill my calling to serve and protect our country. Looking forward to the incredible experience this newfound endeavor will bring.” 

Various civilian stakeholders and uniformed personnel who contributed to the unit's mission accomplishment were also recognized during the event.

In his message, Sison underscored the role of the 303rd IBde as its mission extends beyond securing peace in Negros Island. “It is about excelling the efforts in safeguarding and uplifting the Negrenses while serving the nation with unwavering integrity and distinction.”

Sison thanked troops for their unwavering dedication, devotion, and commitment to duty which led the unit to significant accomplishments, earning it the distinction of being the “fightingest” brigade of the 3rd ID and the Philippine Army. 

He highlighted the brigade’s achievements in counter-insurgency operations which includes five major government-initiated engagements, community development programs, and disaster response efforts.

Brig. Gen. Orlando Edralin, 303rd IBde commander, said that accomplishments would not have been possible without the remarkable support from various stakeholders and counterparts from other uniformed personnel and most especially to the individual and collective performances of soldiers on the ground. Thus, it is but timely and appropriate to give them due credit for all their sacrifices, commitment, and dedication to duty, he said.

He encouraged all military troopers to unite and strive together to achieve greater success for all Negrenses. “Let us always work together for the greater aspiration of peace and development here in Negros Island. We will exemplify honor, patriotism, and duty," he said.