MAJOR General William Gonzales, 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division commander, welcomed two officers to the Alakdan family as they were installed as new commanders of 45th and 100th Infantry Battalions (IB).

Gonzales presided the change of command ceremonies of the two battalions earlier this week at Camp General Teodulfo Baustista in Jolo, Sulu.

Installed as the new 45IB commander was Major Vicente Mabborang, who replaced Lieutenant Colonel Ruben Guinolbay.

Gonzales lauded the combat as well as the civil-military operations of the unit under Guinolbay's stint.

Gonzales noted that through armed engagement, the 45IB was able to neutralize several Abu Sayyaf Group members including Muhadamar Said alias Abu Udal, Guro Khalid, Malaysian national Alias Rasas, Arsibar Sawadjaan.

He said under Guinolbay's leadership, the 45IB was also able to facilitate the conduct of four Barangay Peace Action Team (BPAT) Commando Courses and the first BPAT Challenge.

“I’m sure the former internally displaced people of Barangay Tugas are thankful for all the initiative you have given to help rehabilitate this former ghost town,” Gonzales said during the turnover of command ceremony held at 45IB Headquarters in Tugas, Patikul.

Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel Alex Gagula also formally ended his stint as 100IB commander.

Gagula was the first-ever commander of the newly organized unit.

Gonzales said within a short timeline, Gagula was able to facilitate the surrender of Abu Sayyaf bandits, settle clan wars or "Rido" within his area of operation.

Lives were also saved as 100IB foiled a planned bombing in October last year, according to Gonzales.

He installed Lieutenant Colonel Michael Cuenca as the news commander of the 100IB in a ceremony held at its headquarters in Poblacion village, Indanan, Sulu.

Gonzales expressed his appreciation for all the efforts the two outgoing commanders have given for the benefit of Sulu. (SunStar Zamboanga)