THE Army's 53rd Infantry "Matapat" Battalion (IB) has donned the new ranks of its newly-promoted personnel in a simple but fitting ceremony at Camp Sabido that houses the headquarters of the battalion in Guipos, Zamboanga del Sur.

Lieutenant Colonel Jo-ar Herrera, 53IB commander, said a total of 34 enlisted personnel were promoted to the next higher rank.

Herrera said that of the 34 Matapat Troopers promoted, six were promoted from Private First Class (PFC) to Corporal (Cpl); six from Cpl. to Sergeant (Sgt); 14 -- nine permanent and five temporary -- were promoted from Sgt. to Staff Sergeant (SSgt.); seven -- four permanent and three temporary -- were promoted from SSgt. to Technical Sergeant (TSgt.); and Miguel Habawel, the acting Battalion Sergeant Major (SM), was promoted from Technical Sergeant to Master Sergeant (MSgt.).

Herrera presided the donning of ranks ceremony, together with the proud and supportive family members of those promoted.

He encouraged the newly-promoted troopers to continue their pursuit of excellence, acknowledging their hard work and dedication to duty especially for having the 53IB top the recently-concluded Annual General Inspection conducted by the Philippine Army Inspector General.

"This is a solid proof that your hard work, dedication to duty, and selfless service is not forgotten by the Philippine Army. Your Matapat Family is one with you in celebrating your well-deserved promotion," he said.

"Continue your pursuit of excellence, undergo various schooling, and your Battalion will support you," Herrera added. (SunStar Zamboanga)