THE Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) activated Thursday, August 12, a new office that will assist the commander of the Westmincom on all matters pertaining to activities concerning the reservists' and retirees' affairs.
"We acknowledge the importance of integrating our reserve forces' capabilities and capacity to contribute to the peace and development initiatives of this command. The establishment of the much-needed Office of the Assistant Chief of Unified Command Staff (ACUCS) for Reservist and Retirees or U9, will enhance our efforts in safekeeping our gains throughout our joint area of operations with the help of those civilians who volunteer themselves to our cause," Lieutenant General Corleto Vinluan Jr., Westmincom chief, said during the activation ceremony of the new office.
Vinluan has named Colonel Rey Pasco as the first ACUCS for Reservist and Retirees. He was the director of the 7th Armed Forces of the Philippines Reserve Center at Camp Navarro, Zamboanga City.
In his assumption speech, Pasco said he is grateful for entrusting to him this newly-organized and activated office of the Westmincom.
"It is an honor to serve our reservists and retirees," Pasco said.
The activation ceremony was held at the Westmincom Conference Room in Camp Navarro, home of the Westmincom headquarters in Zamboanga City, and was presided by Vinluan.
The activation ceremony was graced by Brigadier General Antonio Nafarrete, deputy commander for administration; Brigadier General Arturo Rojas, deputy commander for operations; Colonel elmer Suderio, chief of Unified Command Staff; the command staff; and other guests. (SunStar Zamboanga)