THE 97th Infantry Battalion (97IB) has received 33 additional personnel providing a boost in its strength to bring peace and security to the communities the battalion serves.
The 33 new personnel include one with the rank of Corporal and 32 Privates, the 97IB said Friday, April 18.
Lieutenant Colonel Jimmy Sanz, 97IB commander, led the pinning of patch ceremony for its newly assigned personnel on Wednesday, April 16, officially welcoming them as new members of the battalion.
The ceremony was held at the headquarters of the 97IB in del Pilar village, Piñan, Zamboanga del Norte.
The 32 privates completed their reception rites on Tuesday, April 15, at the headquarters of the 97IB.
“These rites, part of military tradition for newly assigned personnel, involved series of physical exercises designed to test their strength, endurance, and commitment,” the 97IB said in a statement.
Sanz welcomed the new members of the battalion and emphasized the importance of discipline, dedication, and unity.
He encouraged them to uphold the values of the Philippine Army and to carry out their duties with honor and integrity.
“We trust that you will embody the spirit of our unit and contribute to bringing peace and security to our community,” the 97IB said, quoting Sanz as saying.
“We are confident that your skills and passion will make a positive impact,” he added.
During the ceremony, three of the newly assigned personnel also delivered messages of commitment, affirming their dedication to fulfilling their assigned duties and responsibilities.
The pinning of patch ceremony reflected the battalion’s commitment to instilling a sense of pride and purpose among its personnel as they began their journey in military service. (SunStar Zamboanga)