By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Former soldiers Gringo Honasan and Ariel Querubin filed their Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) for senator on Monday, October 7, 2024.
Honasan, who served as senator from 1995 to 2004 and again from 2007 to 2019, emphasized the need for stronger legislative measures to enhance food security, improve land use, bolster national defense, and promote freedom of information.
Retired Marine Col. Ariel Querubin, a Medal of Valor awardee, also submitted his COC, accompanied by Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong. Querubin pledged to defend the country’s rights over the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
“Bilang isang retiradong Marine, ‘di natin kaya na nakaupo at nanonood lang habang paulit-ulit nila tayong inaapi sa WPS. Protektahan natin ito at ipaglaban ang ating karapatan. Ito ay para sa seguridad natin at kinabukasan,” Querubin said.
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MANILA — In a significant ceremony held at Camp Capinpin in Tanay, Rizal, one hundred fifty (150) new soldiers from the Second Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division proudly graduated from their intensive Infantry Orientation Course (INFOC) training.
The event was presided over by 2ID Commander Maj. Gen. Roberto S. Capulong and honored by Mr. Francisco Ashley L. Acedillo, Chief of Staff of the Office of Senator Francis N. Tolentino, marked the completion of the 8-week INFOC “Kalasag” Class 07-2023.
The diverse class, consisting of 142 males and 8 females, successfully navigated the rigorous training, equipping them with the skills needed for combined arms operations and various Infantry activities in diverse combat environments.
Maj. Gen. Capulong, in his congratulatory remarks, acknowledged the dedication of the newly enlisted privates for completing both their basic military training and INFOC training consecutively.
He underscored the vital role these soldiers play in ensuring the nation’s security and fostering peace, urging them to embrace the values of honor, duty, and loyalty as they become integral members of the Second Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division.
(ai/mnm)