THE Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division (3ID) commemorated its 51st Founding Anniversary at the Covered Gym, Camp Peralta, Jamindan, Capiz on May 30, 2025.
The celebration was led by Lieutenant General Roy M. Galido, commanding general of the Philippine Army, alongside Major General Michael Samson, commander of the 3ID.
“This is the pillar of why we are accomplishing the narrative mentioned earlier. I express my utmost gratitude to all of you for maintaining the standard of discipline which is unique in the Army and the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” said Lieutenant General Galido in his anniversary address.
In his remarks, Samson emphasized the division’s evolution in response to modern threats.
“The challenges ahead demand that we become more adaptive, more innovative, and more determined than ever,” Samson said.
He also acknowledged civilian partners, stating, “Your partnership and invaluable contributions have strengthened our mission. Together, we move forward in unity towards a safer and more prosperous future.”
The event was attended by stakeholders from national and local government agencies, local government units, media representatives, and uniformed personnel under the 3ID’s operational control. It featured the recognition of key civilian partners and military awardees for their continued support and outstanding performance.
Civilian awardees included Prosecutor Flosemer Chris I. Gonzales, Spokesperson of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict in Western Visayas; Director Raul E. Fernandez of the Office of Civil Defense Region VI; Dr. Joseph Dean L. Nicolo of the Western Visayas Medical Center; Director Sanny Boy O. Oropel of the Department of Public Works and Highways Region VI; Director Danilo J. Villa Jr. of DPWH Region VII; Engineer Romulo O. Sumaculub of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region VI; Engineer Jonnel B. Borres of the National Irrigation Administration Region VI; Mr. Cedric M. Sazon of Southwest Travel and Tours; Director Arwin O. Razo of the Department of Social Welfare and Development Region VI; ENP Cheryl B. Amor of the Philippine Information Agency Region VI; Municipal Mayor Oscar Richard S. Garin Jr. of Miag-ao, Iloilo; and the Rotary Club of Roxas City.
Military awardees included Captain Renato G. Ballena Jr. (47th Infantry Battalion), adjudged Outstanding Officer of the Year; Sergeant Marjun U. Timtim (47IB), Outstanding Enlisted Personnel; and Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit Active Auxiliary (CAA) member Egan G. Danoso (Delta Company, 79IB), Outstanding CAA of the Year.
Also recognized were:
Second Lieutenant Karen Grace B. Sabedorio (Res), 6th Regional Community Defense Group, 604th Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion – Region 6
First Lieutenant Lowell P. Signap (Res), 7RCDG – Region 7
Sergent Jaypee B. Allona (Res), 6RCDG – Region 6
Sergent Theresa G. Resgonia (Res), 7RCDG – Region 7
Passi City College ROTC Unit – Region 6
Trinidad Municipal College ROTC Unit – Region 7
Danna Kenya T. Fernandez, Admin Aide IV, Civilian Personnel Office, OG1, 3ID
Special military distinctions were also awarded, including:
Distinguished Service Medal – Colonel Constander V. Cahayon, Assistant Chief of Staff for Intelligence, G2, 3ID
Gawad sa Kapayapaan – Lieutenant Colonel Arturo S. Balgos Jr.
Gold Cross Medal – Corporal Ruel A. Arellano
Bronze Cross Medals – Sergeant Isagani M. Abanilla, Corporal Jovanie B. Respecio, and Private First Class Jay-Ar M. Llavore
The 3ID’s line units were also recognized through streamers conferred by the Commanding General, Philippine Army:
CGPA Kalasag Streamers: 62IB, 79IB, 94IB, 6FSSU, 3CMO Batallion
CGPA Kabatiran Streamers: 7ISU (2), 3MIB (4)
CGPA Bayanihan Streamers: 12IB, 61IB
CGPA Major Engagement Streamers: 47IB, 82IB
CGPA Significant Accomplishment and Major Engagement Streamer: 82IB
301st Brigade: 2 Bayanihan, 3 Major Engagement, 2 Significant Accomplishment
302nd Brigade: 1 Major Engagement
303rd Brigade: 1 Kalasag
3ID Headquarters: 2 Bayanihan, 4 Major Engagement, 2 Significant Accomplishment, 1 Kalasag
The division celebrated its anniversary with a series of pre-event activities, including a fun run, squad challenge, fun shoot, games, sportsfest, bloodletting drive, and tree planting, highlighting its civic and environmental responsibilities.
A wreath-laying ceremony was conducted to honor fallen soldiers, reaffirming the division’s commitment to remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Galido also led the inauguration of new facilities at Camp Peralta, aimed at improving personnel support and operational readiness.
The 3ID, headquartered in Camp Peralta, Jamindan in Capiz, continues to play a vital role in safeguarding peace and development in Western and Central Visayas, and the Negros Island Region. (Leo Solinap/SunStar Philippines)