THE Philippine Army has installed a seasoned officer to lead the 5th Mechanized Infantry Battalion of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade based in the province of Lanao del Norte.

Installed as the new 5th Mechanized Infantry "Kaagapay" Battalion commander was Lieutenant Colonel Julius Librada, who replaced Colonel Alfonso Matias Jr.

Colonel Rey Alemania, commander of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry "Magbalantay" Brigade, presided the change of command ceremony, which was held last week at the headquarters of the 5th Mechanized Infantry Battalion in Claro M. Recto village, Maigo, Lanao del Norte.

Alemania said Matias will serve another position of major responsibility at Philippine Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio.

Matias has thanked all "Kaagapay" troopers for their relentless efforts in maintaining peace, security and developments in the unit's area of responsibility and to the stakeholders for their unwavering support during his stint as commanding of the battalion.

Librada, prior to his assumption as the new battalion commander, has served as division staff and commanding officer of headquarters and Headquarters Service Battalion of the Armor Division at Camp O'Donnell, Capas, Tarlac.

Alemania has commended Matias for his exemplary performance for leading the battalion toward a professional and decisive Mechanized Infantry Battalion of Armor Division.

Alemania challenged Librada to continue what his predecessor has started with reinvigorate commitment, passion and dedication that lead to more successes for peace and development in the province of Lanao del Norte. (SunStar Zamboanga)