FOUR OFFICERS of the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) were honored in a donning of ranks ceremony led by its commander, Lieutenant General Luis Rex D. Bergante, in Naval Station Felix Apolinario, Panacan, Davao City, on April 29.
The newly promoted officers are Lieutenant Commander Gian Carlo E Melad PN, Acting Assistant Chief of Unified Command Staff for Personnel, OU1; Lieutenant Commander Lovely Joy M Benitez PN, Secretary of Unified Command Staff; Major Ramel B Vilocura PN (M), Deputy Assistant Chief of Unified Command Staff for Research, Resources, and Acquisition, OU9; and Major Darl Lennon G Papas PAF, Morale and Welfare/Admin Officer, OU1.
In his address, Bergante congratulated the officers, recognizing their outstanding professionalism and exceptional performance, which he said rightfully earned them their significant advancement in rank.
“Patience is a virtue,” Bergante remarked, acknowledging the promotees’ perseverance. “Truly, it was an act of hope as they fervently prayed for God’s compassion and mercy. To our promotees, no doubt, consider this as a personal triumph – a well-deserved recognition of your hard work and sacrifice.”
The EastMinCom Commander emphasized the importance of this achievement for the command’s capabilities. “These achievements mean an additional pool of competent personnel who can lead and execute plans towards our unit’s accomplishment and to contribute to the overall success of our Armed Forces,” he stated.
Bergante also encouraged the newly promoted officers to continue their growth. “Do not let this achievement lull you into complacency and stop you from growing. Instead, make this an inspiration to do more so that you can achieve more and influence others to grow and succeed as well,” he urged.
The donning of ranks ceremony is a significant tradition within EastMinCom, symbolizing the dedication and perseverance of its personnel as they reach crucial milestones in their military careers.
Beyond a formal event, it represents their personal and professional development, signifying their increased readiness to serve the people of Eastern Mindanao with unwavering commitment, integrity, and excellence.
