6th Mechanized Infantry 'Salaknib' Battalion

𝐀𝐑𝐌𝐎𝐑 𝐃𝐈𝐕𝐈𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐑 𝐕𝐈𝐒𝐈𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐒𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐊𝐍𝐈𝐁 𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐒

𝐒𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐀𝐍 𝐊𝐔𝐃𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐓, Maguindanao del Norte – The troops of the 6th Mechanized Infantry (Salaknib) Battalion, Armor Division, PA under the leadership of Ltc Gilbert L Boado, warmly welcomed MGen Pedro C Balisi Jr., Commander of the Armor Division, Philippine Army and BGen Charlemagne F Batayola Jr, Assistant Division Commander, Armor Division, PA during their visit to the 6Mech Bn Advance Command Post at Brgy Pigcalagan, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte on August 22, 2024.

The visit commenced with a reception line of battalion staff officers and Company Commanders, followed by a guest book signing and awarding of personnel where he recognized the exceptional bravery and commitment of personnel in performing their duties that significantly contributed to the unit's success. The awardees includes SSg Jon-jon A Sahisa who was awarded the Silver Cross Medal for distinguished heroism in the conduct of intelligence operations; TSg Lee T Guillermo who were awarded the Military Commendation Medal for outstanding and invaluable services exemplified during the commemoration of the unit’s 5th founding anniversary; and Cpl Jerry G Alambra who were awarded with the Military Merit Medal for meritorious and invaluable achievement rendered during the conduct of Law Enforcement Support Operations (LESO).

During the “Talk to Mounted Warriors”, MGen Balisi gave insights focusing in the importance of discipline, maintaining good health and taking care of one’s well-being to ensure an effective service for the country. He stressed the importance of “PATRIOTISM” among personnel, the importance of their military service for the benefit of their families and to carry out their duties and responsibilities effectively and to the best of their abilities. Additionally, he emphasized the necessity of avoiding detrimental practices such as vices that could jeopardize their careers and may affect their families in the long run. The troops were also given the opportunity to voice their concerns and have their queries directly addressed by the Division Commander, fostering open communication towards strengthening morale and welfare among the personnel.

After the Talk to Troops, CO, 6Mech Bn presented a short briefing to appraise the Commander, Armor Division on the overview of the unit’s current situation, disposition of forces, and recent accomplishments, including the contribution of the unit during the Decisive Military Operation against the BIFF-Karialan Faction that led to the neutralization of 12 members of the said group, including their leader. Furthermore, the briefing also served as a platform for the unit to raise concerns, which were promptly addressed to ensure the unit’s operational readiness and overall effectiveness.

The visit underscored the importance of the 6Mech Bn's role in maintaining peace and security in the province while uplifting the morale of the troops.

𝐓𝐖𝐎 𝐁𝐈𝐅𝐅 𝐑𝐄𝐌𝐍𝐀𝐍𝐓𝐒 𝐘𝐈𝐄𝐋𝐃 𝐓𝐎 𝟏𝐁𝐂𝐓, 𝐏𝐀

𝐒𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐀𝐍 𝐊𝐔𝐃𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐓, Maguindanao del Norte - Two former members of Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) voluntarily surrendered and laid down their fi****ms to the 6th Mechanized Infantry “SALAKNIB” Battalion, Armor Division, PA under the leadership of Ltc Gilbert Boado, together with 99th Infantry Battalion, 5ID, PA under the leadership of Ltc Donald Sia-ed, both attached to the 1st Brigade Combat Team, PA under the leadership of BGen Jose Vladimir Cagara stationed at Brgy Pigcalagan, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte. Furthermore, the former violent extremists (FVEs) were presented to MGen Antonio Nafarrete, Commander, 6ID and JTF Central during his visit to the said unit on 19 August 2024.

During the presentation ceremony, Ltc Boado presented two members of BIFF Bungos Faction with their fi****ms (Garand and homemade sniper rifle) which is the result of the unit’s continuous efforts and dedication in pursuit of peace and security by taking the extra mile to engage and persuade members of LTGs to surrender and go back to the folds of the law. Furthermore, the BIFF remnants recognized the severe consequences of their involvement and the difficulties they faced in joining the extremist group, as a result, they have chosen to leave behind their past affiliations and seek a more constructive and peaceful life.

The FVEs were given immediate cash and food assistance by the Office of the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD) Maguindanao, represented by Ms. Glenda Lu Puton, Ministry of Public Order and Safety (MPOS-BARMM) headed by Ms. Sittie Janine Gamao and MILG-BARMM represented by Mr Zulficar Zamil C Sero. This assistance aligns with their mandate to manage and implement programs focused on the economic and social development of every Bangsamoros, supporting reintegration and improving their livelihoods.

During his message, Mgen Nafarrete commended the leadership of 1BCT, PA for their professionalism and dedication in achieving noteworthy accomplishments. He congratulated the FVEs for their courage to surrender and taking steps towards contributing positively in fostering peace in the community. Furthermore, by choosing reintegration and giving up extremist activities, their surrender is essential not only for their own personal transformation but also for the larger efforts of the JTF-Central's mission to stabilize the Region and assist the development of the Bangsamoro.

𝐒𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐊𝐍𝐈𝐁 𝐁𝐍 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐏𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝐊𝐮𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐭, 𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐮𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐨

𝐒𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐀𝐍 𝐊𝐔𝐃𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐓, Maguindanao del Norte – On August 16, 2024, a peace and security meeting was conducted that brought together MNLF and M**F Base Commanders to reinforce the commitment to peace and stability in the region and disseminate essential directive from Commander, Western Mindanao Command, AFP and JTF Central down to the forces in the ground. The said activity was spearheaded by the Commanding Officer, 6Mech Bn with the guidance of Commander, 1st Brigade Combat Team at FOB, 61Mech Coy, Brgy Macaguiling, Sultan Kudarat, SKMDN.

This meeting was a crucial step in fostering a stronger and more collaborative relationship between the M**F, MNLF, and government forces. By focusing on enhancing coordination and communication, the meeting aimed to address and resolve security concerns that could hinder the ongoing peace efforts. Additionally, the forum also provided an invaluable opportunity for the participants to engage in an open dialogue, allowing them to address and mitigate potential sources of tension. This transparent exchange of ideas and concerns underscores the shared commitment to peace and the collective effort to build trust among the parties.

As the nation prepares for the upcoming National and Local Elections in 2025, Lt. Col. Boado highlighted the importance of continuous engagements as a foundation for ensuring a peaceful and credible election process. He also emphasized the importance of adhering to the directives, particularly regarding the management of loose fi****ms and the bringing of fi****ms outside of the registered M**F camp. Furthermore, he added that the participation in the meeting underscores the unwavering commitment to working with all stakeholders to foster understanding, maintain cooperation, and preserve lasting peace which are essential for the prosperity of the communities.

Commander Dohden Usman, one of the M**F leaders, also shared his insights, emphasizing the significance of such meetings in building trust and fostering mutual understanding. He commended the proactive approach of the Philippine military and M**F leadership in advancing the peace process and expressed his optimism that these ongoing efforts would lead to a safer and more stable environment for all.

The meeting concluded with all parties reaffirming their dedication to upholding peace and mutual cooperation, setting a positive precedent for future collaborations aimed at sustaining peace and development in the region.

𝐒𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐊𝐍𝐈𝐁 𝐁𝐍 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐏𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝐏𝐄𝐀𝐂𝐄 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐒𝐄𝐂𝐔𝐑𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐂𝐎𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐌𝐄𝐄𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆

The 6th Mechanized Infantry (SALAKNIB) Battalion, Armor (PAMBATO) Division, PA, led by Ltc Gilbert L Boado, participated in the Peace and Security Coordination Meeting held at Camp Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte. This pivotal event was organized and coordinated by Dr Haroro J Ingram, Country Director (Philippines) of the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), and in coordination with the Government of the Philippines Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (GPH-CCCH) under BGen Nasser P Lidasan, PhD, PA, Chairman and Assistant Division Commander of the 6th Infantry Division, PA. Furthermore, other attendees include BGen Jose Vladimir R Cagara, Commander of the 1st Brigade Combat Team, PCol Sultan Salman H Sapal, PD of Maguindanao del Norte Police Provincial Office, Hon Suwaib Oranon, Central Mindanao Front Commander of the M**F and a member of the parliament, BTA and various M**F base commanders, highlighting the collaborative nature of the meeting.

The said meeting aims to strengthen the peaceful relationship between the M**F and government forces through enhance coordination and collaboration towards the sustainment of peace and security in the region. Additionally, the forum provided a platform for addressing various security and coordination concerns, allowing both the M**F, the AFP and PNP to openly discuss and resolve issues. Furthermore, one of the significant topics discussed during the open forum is the establishment of a technical working group for easy coordination and immediate response to any incidents for the upcoming election.

In his remarks, BGen Lidasan highlighted the importance of unity and dialogue in achieving sustainable peace, stating that “Our participation in this meeting underscores our commitment to working with all stakeholders to maintain peace and security in the region. We are dedicated to supporting initiatives that foster understanding, cooperation, and lasting peace.”

On the other hand, Dr Ingram emphasized the significance of such meetings in fostering mutual understanding and building trust among parties. He applauded the efforts of the Philippine military and M**F leadership in advancing peace and security. Likewise, Ms Aliah Adam, Director of the Strategic Communications and Capacity Building (SCCB) Project, USIP, stressed in her closing remarks the need for continuous dialogue and cooperation. She also expressed optimism that the ongoing efforts would lead to a more secure and peaceful environment for all.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to peace and collaboration, reflecting the shared vision of all parties involved.

𝐒𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐊𝐍𝐈𝐁 𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐒 𝐒𝐄𝐂𝐔𝐑𝐄𝐃 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐋𝐀𝐔𝐍𝐂𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐎𝐅 𝟕𝟕𝐓𝐇 𝐅𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐀𝐍𝐍𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐀𝐑𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐌𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐏𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐒𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐀𝐍 𝐊𝐔𝐃𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐓, 𝐌𝐀𝐆𝐔𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐎 𝐃𝐄𝐋 𝐍𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐄

𝐒𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐀𝐍 𝐊𝐔𝐃𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐓, Maguindanao del Norte – On July 15, 2024, the 6th Mechanized Infantry Battalion deployed troops to ensure the safety of populace and the success of the launching of the 77th Founding Anniversary of the municipality of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao Del Norte.

The municipality of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao Del Norte headed by Hon Datu Tucao O Mastura, Municipal Mayor spearheaded the launching of their 77th Founding Anniversary highlighted by the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Trade Fair 2024 at the Municipal Plaza in Brgy Dalumangcob and was participated and led by Col Rommel S Pagayon GSC (INF) PA, Deputy Commander, 1BCT and others officers from different units under the Brigade Combat Team (BCT).

Hon Mastura declared the opening of the celebrations together with Hon Bai Sittie Shahara "Dimple" I Mastura, Congresswoman of Maguindanao Del Norte and Cotabato City and other guest. In his speech, Hon Mastura expressed gratitude for the AFP's efforts and contributions, particularly those of the 6th Mechanized Infantry Battalion, which was commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Gilbert L Boado. Vice Mayor Datu Shameem B Mastura also underlined the significance of stopping the spread of unsecured fi****ms and the vital role the 1BCT plays in accomplishing that objective.

Salaknib Troopers ensures the security of the area and engage in a Static Display that highlights the capability of their Armored Assets. This deployment was crucial in maintaining peace and order throughout the festivities, reflecting the unit’s commitment to community safety and engagement.

The 6th Mechanized Infantry (SALAKNIB) Battalion remains steadfast in its mission to serve and protect, continuing to uphold the values of the Philippine Army in every engagement.

𝐒𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐊𝐍𝐈𝐁 𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐒 𝐄𝐌𝐁𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐄 𝐂𝐀𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐄 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐀 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐋𝐓𝐇𝐘 𝐋𝐈𝐅𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐘𝐋𝐄 𝐃𝐔𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝟔𝐈𝐃 𝐂𝐎𝐋𝐎𝐑 𝐅𝐔𝐍 𝐑𝐔𝐍

𝐀𝐖𝐀𝐍𝐆, 𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐔 𝐎𝐃𝐈𝐍 𝐒𝐈𝐍𝐒𝐔𝐀𝐓, Maguindanao del Norte – The 6th Mechanized Infantry (Salaknib) Battalion, Armor (Pambato) Division, PA, spearheaded by Ltc Gilbert Boado, participated in the lively 6ID Color Fun Run on July 14, 2024, at Headquarters 6ID together with other Officers, personnel, and dependents from various organic and operational control (OPCON) units.

Warm-up and stretching exercises preceded the fun run, which began at 04:30. The runners began at 05:00 and were led by MGEN RILLERA. Participants, adorned in white shirts, eagerly navigated through a scenic route sprinkled with vibrant bursts of color. Each kilometer brought not just a physical challenge but a celebration of unity and spirit.

After the run, the participants engaged in a refreshing cooldown exercise to gradually lower their heart rates and stretch their muscles. This was followed by a memorable photo opportunity where soldiers and officers posed together, their vibrant attire splashed with colors. The event culminated in a friendly gathering over snacks, providing a casual setting for attendees to interact and reflect on the morning's activities with Major General Rillera, outgoing commander of 6ID.

The Color Fun Run also served as a platform to underscore the importance of mental health awareness and stress management within the military community. By engaging in a lively, non-competitive event, participants were able to unwind from their daily responsibilities while fostering a positive environment that encourages overall wellness.

𝐒𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐊𝐍𝐈𝐁 𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐒 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐁𝐔𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐈𝐍 𝐁𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐃𝐋𝐄𝐓𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐈𝐍 𝐂𝐎𝐓𝐀𝐁𝐀𝐓𝐎 𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐘

A blood donor today could be a life saver tomorrow…

On July 10, 2024, the 6th Mechanized Infantry (SALAKNIB) Battalion, Armor (PAMBATO) Division, PA, actively supports and participated in the mobile blood donation activity organized by the Metro Cotabato Water District (MCWD) led by Ms. Jennylyn Zabate, Program Officer, and the Cotabato City Health Office – MOH held at MCWD Compound, Cotabato City. During the event, some 250 donors coming from different government agencies and organizations participated in the activity including personnel from 61st Mech Coy, 63rd Mech Coy and “B" Coy, 92IB (placed OPCON to 6Mech Bn). Furthermore, the remarkable event aims to replenish blood supplies and ensure that hospitals and medical centers in the region are well-equipped to handle emergencies and critical patient care.

The Commanding Officer of 6Mech Bn, Ltc Gilbert L Boado, assert that the bloodletting activity is part of the unit’s continuous efforts to support community health initiatives and contribute to saving lives. He also emphasized the significance of such activities in fostering a strong bond between the military and the community. “By donating blood, we are not only saving lives but also strengthening our ties with the people we serve and protect” he said.

Ms Jennylyn Zabate, Program Officer of MCWD, expressed her gratitude for the active involvement of the 6Mech Bn troops, highlighting the positive impact of their contribution on the community’s health and well-being. Additionally, she also expressed that “the participation of the Philippine Army in this bloodletting activity is a testament to their dedication to public service and their support significantly boosts our efforts to maintain a sufficient blood supply for those in need.”

Such collaborative event stands as a testament to the strong partnership between the military and civilian sectors, working hand in hand for the betterment of the community. It also serves as a reminder of the enduring spirit of “BAYANIHAN" that binds the Filipino people together for a common cause towards peace, saving lives and development.

𝟔𝟏𝐌𝐄𝐂𝐇 𝐂𝐎𝐘 𝐄𝐍𝐇𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐄𝐒 𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐋 𝐄𝐅𝐅𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐒
𝐓𝐇𝐑𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇 𝐒𝐖𝐄𝐄𝐏 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆

The 6th Mechanized Infantry (SALAKNIB) Battalion, Armor (PAMBATO) Division, PA under the leadership of Ltc Gilbert L Boado ARM (GSC) PA spearheaded the conduct of Sustained Warfighting Enhancement and Evaluation Program (SWEEP) of the 61st Mechanized Infantry Company from May 20 to July 5, 2024. The training aims to refresh the personnel of the unit in various war fighting functions necessary for the accomplishment of the unit’s mission. It also aims to assess the unit's operational readiness, marksmanship qualifications, and proficiency in battle drills and basic knowledge and skills.

Throughout the training period, participants were engaged in comprehensive lectures and practical exercises including Fundamentals of Marksmanship, Battle Drills, Mortar Gunnery, Armored Vehicle Armaments, Troop Leading Procedure, Map Reading, Checkpoint Operations, Observe Fire Procedures, Identification of Explosives and Components, IED Detection, Basic Military Aidman Training, Basic Life Support, Tactical Combat Casualty Care, IHL Human Rights and Rules of Engagement, Water Skills and Rappelling, Water Survival, and Fundamentals of CMO and CSP. Furthermore, an evaluation was also conducted by Maj Piga, the AC of S for Education and Training, G8, 1BCT on July 3-4, 2024 to ensure that all personnel demonstrated proficiency in the skills and knowledge that they acquired during the training.

The closing ceremony of the SWEEP Training of 61Mech Coy was presided by Ltc Boado on July 5, 2024 at H61Mech Coy, Brgy Macaguiling, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao Del Norte. In his speech, he emphasized that learning is a continuous process and an important aspect of every individual soldier of the organization. He also highlighted that the SWEEP training serves as a refresher to enhance the acquired combat skills and ensure that each personnel is equipped with the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitude to become more effective in the performance of their given tasks. He concluded with a motivational quote: "Embrace the struggle of basic training, for it prepares you for the toughest battles to come."

𝟲𝗠𝗲𝗰𝗵 𝗕𝗻 𝗵𝗮𝘀 𝗮 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿!

𝗦𝗨𝗟𝗧𝗔𝗡 𝗞𝗨𝗗𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗧, Maguindanao del Norte – The 6th Mechanized Infantry (Salaknib) Battalion, Armor (Pambato) Division, PA welcomed Msg Eduardo Baquiran Jr as the new Bn Sergeant Major. The traditional Turn-Over Ceremony was held last June 28, 2024 at the Battalion’s Advance Command Post and presided by Ltc Gilbert Boado, Commanding Officer of 6Mech Bn and attended by Salaknib troopers, guests and retired Armor personnel residing nearby the vicinity of the unit.

During the time-honored traditional Turn-Over Ceremony, the outgoing Sergeant Major, MSg Franklin D. Guleng (Arm) PA, handed over the Combat Leader’s Knife (Battalion Sergeant Major) to MSg Eduardo B. Baquiran Jr (Arm) PA, the newly installed Sergeant Major of the 6Mech Bn. The Combat Leader's Knife is an emblematic symbol representing a senior non-commissioned officer's superior leadership abilities and unwavering commitment on enhancing the unit's operational effectiveness and efficiency on the front line. Within the NCO Corps, the knife signifies not only authority and exemplary performance but also serves as a standard component of the military uniform, embodying the honor and responsibility of the role it represents.

The outgoing Sergeant Major, MSg Guleng, faithfully served as the unit’s Sergeant Major for 2 years and 9 months. During his tenure, he played an essential role in numerous operational successes, professional development and maintenance of high degree of morale among the enlisted personnel of the unit. Furthermore, he will continue his service as Bn Sergeant Major with the 3Mech Bn, Armor Division, PA stationed at San Jose, Tarlac.

On the other hand, MSg Baquiran Jr, the newly installed Sergeant Major served as the Sergeant Major of The Armor School (TAS) prior to his reassignment to 6Mech Bn. Being a long-time instructor, his extensive experience and dedication on training the next generation of soldiers prepared him well for his new role as the Battalion Sergeant Major.

In his speech, Ltc Boado commended both MSg Guleng for his exemplary service and MSg Baquiran for his readiness to assume the vital NCO leadership position. He also thanked Msg Guleng for his unwavering commitment and services rendered to the Salaknib Troopers and the 6Mech Bn for more than 2 years. He also welcomed Msg Baquiran and encourage him to continue the different valuable programs of the outgoing Sergeant Major for the benefit of the Salaknib Troopers. Furthermore, he emphasized the critical roles of NCO leadership in maintaining unit cohesion and effectiveness towards operational success and the professional growth of the soldiers. Lastly, he encouraged everyone to live up to the set standards of the unit.

The symbolic turnover of the Sergeant Major underscores the unit's commitment on recognizing and nurturing NCO leadership. This event not only marks the end of one chapter in the unit's history but also heralds the beginning of a new era, filled with promise and continued dedication to the mission.

“𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗱𝗼𝗻'𝘁' 𝗿𝗮𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗼𝗲𝘀, 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗿𝗮𝗶𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝘀𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗺 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝗻𝘀, 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗼𝗲𝘀"

𝗦𝗨𝗟𝗧𝗔𝗡 𝗞𝗨𝗗𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗧, Maguindanao del Norte – The 6th Mechanized Infantry (SALAKNIB) Battalion with the stewardship of Lt Col Gilbert L Boado, Commanding Officer spearheaded the conduct of the traditional pinning of unit patch to the newly assigned personnel on June 04, 2024. Furthermore, a new First Sergeant of HHCO, 6Mech Bn was also installed and presided by MSg Franklin D Guleng, the Battalion Sergeant Major.

During the Turn-Over Ceremony, the outgoing First Sergeant, SSg Magdasoc handed-over the Combat Leader’s Knife (First Sergeant) to TSg Labaosas, the newly installed First Sergeant of HHCO, 6Mech Bn. The Combat Leader's Knife is an emblematic symbol of a non-commissioned officer who possesses excellent leadership abilities and the mindset to seek out, take on, and accept responsibility for improving the effectiveness and efficiency of his or her unit in the front-line. Furthermore, among the NCO Corps, the aforementioned knife represents authority and excellent performance in addition to being a standard component of the uniform.

On the other hand, the pinning of unit patch is a tradition that signifies the welcoming of newly assigned personnel of the unit. Prior to the actual pinning of unit seal for the two (2) officer and eighteen (18) Enlisted Personnel, the emcee elaborated first the history, meaning and importance of each character and colors in the unit seal in order for them to understand and internalize.

Furthermore, the activity also connotes camaraderie, acceptance of the unit’s belief and principles and the commitment to stand firm and live up to the expectations of Salaknib Troopers, the different stakeholders and the people whom the unit serve. Additionally, the newly assigned personnel were very proud to embrace the standards of the unit and be part of the Mechanized unit of 1BCT.