CEBU, Philippines- While celebrating its second founding anniversary, the 82nd Infantry (Bantay-Laya) Battalion also welcomed its new commanding officer yesterday.
Lt. Col . Bebarlito Baribar took over the command of 82IB during a ceremony at 82IB headquarters at Camp Monteclaro in Miag-ao, Iloilo.
The 55-year-old Baribar, who was commissioned into military service in October 1987, hails from Patag, Cagayan de Oro City.
Prior to his assignment as 82IB commander, he was designated as commander of the Task Force Southern Panay of the 301st Infantry Brigade.
Major Gen. Emmanuel Bautista, commanding officer of the 3rd Infantry Battalion, presided the turn-over of command rites between Baribar and his predecessor, Lt. Col. George Joel Lalaquil.
Dubbed as “Ambassador of Stability in Southern Panay,” 82IB was created last May 2009 but officially took action three months later with Lalaquil as its first commanding officer. But 10 days after its taking over of Southern Panay, it experienced its first baptism of fire after Bantay-Laya troopers overran a rebel camp in Barangay Tigbanaba, Igbaras, Iloilo.
Under Lalaquil’s leadership, 82IB spearheaded seven brigade-size operations, 17 battalion operations, 34 company-size operations, 37 platoon operations, and 1,999 small unit patrols.
For Baribar, he is confronted with more challenge in his new assignment because he is presented with a more peculiar operations environment, which is made more complicated by different threat groups.
With the formulation of the AFP’s Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan, Baribar believed that 82IB will play a sensitive role in maintaining a climate of stability and security in Southern Panay,
“I would like to enjoin 82IB’s officers and personnel to instil among ourselves continuous commitment to our job with the usual spirit, teamwork, camaraderie, and unity,” he added.
He also tapped government agencies and the civilian sectors to work with the military in attaining peace.
On the other hand, Bautista said he has no particular marching order for Baribar but to work in line with the AFP’s IPSP Bayanihan.
“They must sustain the gains that they have now. They must work based on our whole-of-nation approach and people-centered approach of leadership,” he added.
He also told Baribar that under his leadership, he must continue to usher changes in 82IB to further secure the environment in Southern Panay.
“As we pursue reform initiatives, I expect you (Baribar) to leader your men with impeccable leadership traits essential in commanding this unit,” Bautista said.
Aside from Lalaquil, there might be other commanders who would be relieved from their posts because they have already reached their maximum 2-year tour of duty.