THE EASTERN Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) conducted a change of chief of office ceremony at the Naval Station Felix Apolinario in Panacan, Davao City, on Monday, May 26, 2025.
The event marked a key leadership transition within the command’s operational planning division.
During the ceremony, Capt. Philip Edward Lamug PN formally handed over the position of assistant chief of Unified Command Staff for Plans and Programs (U5) to LTC Jonas Escabillas PA.
Col. Jorry L. Baclor, PA, the Chief of Unified Command Staff, presided over the event.
In his address, Baclor underscored the critical importance of adaptability and strong leadership in navigating the ever-evolving security landscape.
“In the military, as in life, change is constant, just as our security environment changes constantly. We have to adapt and be agile when facing all of our challenges,” Baclor stated.
He highlighted that such leadership transitions represent a new chapter “filled with possibility, responsibility, and an unwavering call to serve our people with utmost focus.”
Baclor expressed confidence in the new leaders, asserting, “I am very sure that as you take on these new roles, you will once again serve as shining examples and prove to us that every change is an opportunity to improve, to become better, and to serve greater.”
EastMinCom stated that the ceremony symbolizes its ongoing commitment to progress and its embrace of leadership transitions as vital opportunities to strengthen its mission and vision for regional security.
