Military commanders announce coming end of tours of duty

HILONGOS, Leyte, Philippines – The commanding officer of the 19th Infantry Battalion and the chief of the Military Intelligence Company announced their forthcoming end of tour of duty and bid farewell to the intelligence group members during a Christmas party hosted by Mayor Jose Emery Roble recently.

Lieutenant Col. Francis Cabugon, 19th IB commanding officer and Major Gary Lachica, MICO chief, broke the news during the 82nd Brigade Christmas Party held in this town with the members of the military intelligence battalions (MIB) from Regions 7 and 8.

Cabugon cited the valuable contribution of Lachica’s unit to the Philippine Army that led to successful operations against insurgency here.

Lachica, for his part, reminded his men to continue their mission in providing vital information to the regular unit of the Army. “While ours is not the best method, this is equal to none,” he said as he announced that he would be leaving the unit by early next year.

The end of both men’s tour of duty is a normal movement of Army troops to further develop the leadership skills of the officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Roble, in honoring the two officials, said: “Let’s us not absorb the farewell messages of Cabugon and Lachica as a set back to the organization, but an inspiration to do more. I am happy by the sheer number of MIB members, I am happier of your dedication to serve the community without wanting recognition, and most of all, I am happiest by your nerves against adversaries by staying in the shadows. Let’s honor Cabugon and Lachica by celebrating this Christmas with our hearts.”