ONE hundred seventy-two new soldiers have received their firearms in an entrustment ceremony after they have completed rigorous and regimental training of the Philippine Army.
Colonel Leonel Nicolas, Army’s 102nd Infantry Brigade commander, spearheaded the entrustment of firearms ceremony held Wednesday, March 18, at the brigade’s headquarters in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay.
Nicolas said Friday the activity is a rite of passage accorded to new soldiers after completion of the training before their deployment.
He said the new soldiers will augment the manpower of the brigade “to accomplish our objective in ending the local communist armed conflict.”
Nicolas said they will also support in the campaign against the spread of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) in the region.
He reminded the new soldiers to use their firearms prudently and not to harm but to protect the people they serve. (SunStar Zamboanga)