ILIGAN CITY – Col. Samuel Yunque on Tuesday assumed as head of the 102nd Infantry (Igsoon) Brigade of the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division.
Yunque, who led the 1st Scout Ranger Battalion during the Marawi City siege in 2017, succeeded Col. Eddie M. Pilapil during a change of command ceremony at the 102nd IB headquarters in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay.
In his assumption remarks, Yunque reaffirmed his commitment to troops and the communities under the brigade.
“I am humbled and honored to accept command of the 102nd Infantry (Igsoon) Brigade. This responsibility is built on trust – not only from our soldiers and their families but also from the communities we serve. My focus will be on sustaining operational effectiveness, ensuring the welfare and development of our troops, and strengthening civil-military partnerships to uphold peace and stability across Zamboanga Peninsula,” he said.
Pilapil, in his valedictory message, said he was honored to lead the 102nd Brigade and recalled his multiple stints as commander.
“It has been my distinct honor to lead the soldiers of the 102nd Infantry (Igsoon) Brigade. Together, we strengthened operational preparedness, deepened ties with local communities, and advanced troop welfare and professionalism. These milestones were possible because of the dedication of every soldier and the partnerships we built with local stakeholders. As I transition to my new post, I leave confident in the brigade’s capabilities and steadfast commitment to the people we serve. I extend my full support to Col. Samuel G. Yunque and pledge to continue serving the Philippine Army with honor and humility,” said Pilapil who is now the deputy commander of the Installation Management Command.
Major Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., commander of the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division and Joint Task Force Zampelan, lauded both officers.
“The orderly and professional transition of leadership within the 102nd Infantry (Igsoon) Brigade reflects the resilience of our institutions and our commitment to mission continuity. I commend Col. Pilapil for his exemplary service and warmly welcome Col. Yunque, whose record as a Marawi hero and leader of our elite Rangers speaks for itself," he said.
"I am confident in his capacity to steer the brigade toward continued success. The 1st Infantry Division will continue to provide full support to ensure operational readiness, troop welfare, and stronger partnerships with our communities. As I always remind our troops: What endures the hive, endures the bee,” added Barroquillo.