MARAWI CITY — Residents of Lanao and nearby communities can expect continued security operations and support for peaceful elections after Col. Jessie R. Montoya officially assumed command of the 103rd Infantry "Haribon" Brigade on Thursday, succeeding Brig. Gen. Billy O. Dela Rosa, who retired after 34 years of military service.
The change of command, held at Camp Ranao, was presided over by Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., commander of the 1st Infantry "Tabak" Division, and attended by military officials, local government leaders, partner agencies, and community stakeholders.
Montoya assured the public that the brigade will sustain its security gains by continuing operations against remaining armed threat groups while strengthening partnerships with local government units, law enforcement agencies, traditional and religious leaders, and communities.
He also pledged the brigade's full support for the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro and preparations for the upcoming parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
"This is not merely another election. It is historic and one of the most significant milestones of the peace agreement," Montoya said, adding that the brigade will work to help ensure peaceful, orderly, and secure elections while preventing terrorist and other lawless groups from disrupting the democratic process.
Barroquillo thanked Dela Rosa for his leadership, citing the brigade's accomplishments in security operations, intelligence, operational readiness, and troop welfare during his tenure.
"The accomplishments of the Brigade during your tenure have provided a strong foundation upon which future successes can be built," Barroquillo said, expressing confidence that Montoya would continue advancing peace, security, and stability across the brigade's area of responsibility.
In his farewell message, Dela Rosa credited the brigade's achievements in counterinsurgency, peacebuilding, and community development to the strong partnership among the military, local government units, national agencies, and community stakeholders.
He encouraged soldiers to continue serving with integrity, humility, courage, and compassion, emphasizing that leadership is measured by service rather than authority.
"Though retiring from active military service, my commitment to peace, nation-building, and public service will never retire," Dela Rosa said.
The ceremony concluded with the traditional passing of unit colors, symbolizing the formal transfer of command and the brigade's continuing mission to promote peace and security in Lanao and neighboring areas.
