The 3rd Marine Brigade recognized its officers and personnel for their efforts in the counterinsurgency campaign that led to the declaration of Palawan insurgency-free during its 43rd-anniversary celebration of activation on Wednesday, February 11.
The celebration also featured the awarding of the “Most Loyal Plaque” to MSgt. Oscar Lucena, recognizing his 24 years of service to the brigade, and the rededication ceremony, acknowledging the sacrifices, efforts, and milestones achieved by the brigade over the years.
Philippine Marine Corps commandant Maj. Gen. Arturo Rojas, who was the guest of honor at the celebration, said the 3MBDe has always displayed “excellence, resilience, and an unwavering dedication” to national security.”
“This brigade has played a crucial role in safeguarding Palawan, maintaining peace and order, and contributing to the broader mission of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in protecting our western frontier,” Rojas said.
“The 3rd Marine Brigade is not only a force of warriors but also a builder of peace and stability. Our mission extends beyond the battles we’ve won; it lives on in the communities we protect, the lives we touch, and the nation we serve,” he added.
3MBde commander Brig. Gen. Antonio Mangoroban Jr. underscored the brigade’s commitment to national security, urging his troops to maintain their dedication to service in order to sustain the counter-insurgency campaign.
“As we strive to maintain our progress in counterinsurgency, we will remain actively engaged in addressing the country’s broader security concerns, particularly with the shift to territorial defense operations,” Mangoroban said.
“We will continue to partner with other joint task forces of the Western Command, fulfilling our tasks to protect our sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea,” he added.
He also noted other missions of the brigade that include extending support to humanitarian assistance, disaster response, and national development, “just as our predecessors did when they first landed in Palawan and its outlying islands.”
