3ID celebrates ‘atypical’ I-Day
Deviating from the usual, the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division celebrated the 112th Philippine Independence Day with more than just the flag-raising ceremonies done in military camps in Panay and Negros.
Taking a notch higher, 3ID lined up several activities that allowed for greater visibility and interaction between among citizens and the Armed Forces.
In close coordination with the SM City Iloilo, the Spearhead troopers were given a chance to showcase their tactical and operational capabilities by opening a military exhibit within the mall premises.
The exhibit was placed inside the mall – for the weapons, uniforms, and equipment – and outside where the different military vehicles, tanks, artillery, and rescue equipment were displayed.
A recruitment booth was also set up manned by our able Army recruiters to provide information to those interested in pursuing a career in the AFP. The 3-day exhibit was opened on June 11, 2010.
On June 12, the SM City Iloilo marketing team headed by Kristin Rojo-Yap integrated 3ID troops and their vehicles into their Independence Day celebration.
The mall management adopted the theme: “Independence Day: Celebrating our Modern-day Heroes,” which was in line with their theme of heroism a re-enactment of the first EDSA Revolution.
“Our armored vehicles and soldiers participated in this re-enactment which greatly magnified the effect and gave the celebration greater impact. There were approximately 3,000 people in attendance,” said 3ID public information officer 1Lt. Mark Andrew Posadas.
Lt. Col. George Joel Lalaquil, commander of the 82nd Infantry (Bantaylaya) Battalion, represented the Philippine Army during the program.
“Let us not allow our beloved flag to be replaced with a flag exhibiting the hammer and sickle on a red field, the flag of Communism. Let us continue to be vigilant in protecting this symbol so that we may continue to live as a free nation, as Filipinos.” Lalaquil said emphasizing the flag as the greatest symbol of independence.
Meanwhile, Iloilo City Mayor-elect Jed Patrick Mabilog expressed gratitude for the Philippine Army for their support in helping make this year’s Independence Day celebration a memorable one.
Mabilog said that it has his desire to ride our Army’s Simba Tank.
He even playfully asked permission from Lalaquil to ride in the tank.
The program commenced with release of 112 balloons symbolizing 112 years of the country’s independence.
Meanwhile, “Our unit is very fortunate to have been able to be a part of this year’s celebration and we hope to be able to do this again with as much grandeur next year. Our main objective was to not only showcase our capabilities but also to allow the civilians that we serve to interact with our soldiers in the hopes that they may be inspired to be all that they can be. Inspire them to not necessarily join the profession of arms but to be a modern-day hero just like our soldiers,” Posadas noted.
He added that this year’s Independence Day celebration was one of the most memorable not only for residents of Iloilo but also for their troops.
“The strong support given to us by our citizens is evidenced by their interest in our soldiers and their willingness and acceptance of our role in society as they flocked towards our exhibit flashing smiles and gleefully interacting with our soldiers. This acceptance and love strengthens our soldiers’ resolve to continue his sacrifices in a profession that swears its life to protecting our nation,” he concluded.
