MAJOR General Eric Vinoya, commander of 3rd Infantry Division, commended the 79IB for protecting the people of Northern Negros against the communist rebels in the area.
Vinoya made the commendation as he bid farewell to the 79th Infantry "Masaligan" Battalion two weeks prior to his retirement from the military service.
Vinoya is set to retire on September 6.
Vinoya was received by Lieutenant Colonel J-jay Javines, commanding officer of 79IB in traditional military honors at Headquarters, 79IB, Brgy Bato, Sagay City on August 25, 2021.
Part of the highlights of Vinoya's visit is the awarding of "Gawad Kalinong" plaque and Campaign Streamer Award to 79IB for successfully dismantling the Northern Negros Front (NNF) of Komiteng Rehiyon- Negros Cebu Bohol Siquijor (KR-NCBS) and the awarding of deserving personnel for their excellent service and gallantry in action in the conduct of various military operations against the CTGs.
Among the awardees of Military Merit Medal with Spearhead device were Sergeant Kenneth C Garcia, Corporal Fredie E Corsino, Corporal James T Somoza, Private Hairo C Alejaga, and Private Dani Luigi G Lachica.
Vinoya also shared his three guiding principles in life and how they impacted his military service for the past 38 years.
"I am what I am now because of these principles - Excellence, Commitment, and Victory. These principles guided me throughout my military career, thus I enjoin everyone to also imbibe these virtues to serve as your anchor in accomplishing your mission here in Northern Negros. To all the men and women of 79IB, I am very grateful to all of you for your commitment and enthusiasm in protecting the people of Northern Negros that have greatly contributed to the attainment of the 3ID's mission," he said.
For his part, Javines also expressed his profound gratitude to Vinoya for the support and encouragement to boost the morale and welfare of the troops.