THE 10TH Infantry Division has formally readied and deployed the 28th Infantry Battalion to augment security operations for the upcoming Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliamentary Elections.
The deployment follows the unit’s successful completion of the intensive battalion evaluation and certification program (BECP), which officially validated the battalion’s combat readiness, operational capability, and tactical proficiency.
Major General Alvin Luzon, commander of the 10th Infantry Division, presided over the battalion’s ceremonial send-off and the formal closing of the BECP on July 24 at the unit’s temporary headquarters in Sitio Estremos, Barangay Poblacion, Magpet, Cotabato.
Led by commanding officer LTCOL Elben Naval, the 28th IB troopers will join broader Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) forces deployed across the BARMM area to safeguard voters, polling precincts, and election workers during the region’s landmark political transition.
Addressing the troops during the ceremony, Luzon commended the unit for attaining high marks in operational readiness and highlighted the critical democratic responsibility resting on their shoulders.
“The successful completion of the Battalion Evaluation and Certification Program gives us confidence that our soldiers are fully prepared for the mission ahead,” Luzon declared.
“As you deploy to support the BARMM Parliamentary Elections, you carry the responsibility of helping ensure a secure environment where every eligible voter can freely exercise the right of suffrage.”
Luzon sternly reminded the soldiers to remain strict guardians of the constitution throughout the election period.
“Remain professional, politically non-partisan, and steadfast in upholding the Constitution, the rule of law, and the trust reposed upon us by the Filipino people,” he added.
The military deployment forms part of the joint security framework established by the AFP, the Philippine National Police, and the Commission on Elections Comelec to deter potential election-related violence and maintain a peaceful environment across the autonomous region.
