Outgoing Army chief visits Pinoy peacekeepers in Golan Heights

MANILA, Philippines - Outgoing Army chief Lt. Gen. Arturo Ortiz has started farewell visits to troops on the frontlines, including those in the Golan Heights in Syria.

Ortiz is due to retire in two months or in November when he reaches the mandatory retirement age of 56.

Ortiz said his visits to troops in the field should emphasize the importance he gives to every soldier under his command. The visits, he said, are an opportunity for him to know and understand the conditions of his men as well as the risk they take.

Ortiz is a recipient of the prestigious Medal of Valor, the military’s highest award for extraordinary bravery in combat.

Marine officer Maj. Gen. Natalio Ecarma III, overall commander of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Forces (UNDOF) stationed in the boundary of Syria and Israel, welcomed Ortiz and his staff. Israel seized the Golan Heights from Syria in 1967 during the Six Day War.

“Army chief visited the troops of the 4th Philippine Contingent to Golan Heights (4PCGH), stationed at the borders of Israel and Syria, to boost their morale and gather feedbacks in order to further improve the Army’s performance in peacekeeping missions,” Army spokesman Col. Antonio Parlade said. The contingent has been in the area since May 15.

The 4th Philippine Contingent to Golan Heights comprises members of the Army’s 76th Infantry Battalion. This was the first time the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) sent a whole battalion for peacekeeping mission in Syria. The Army was able to deploy an entire battalion to Golan Heights because of significant improvement in the security situation in Quezon where the 76th IB used to operate. The 76th IB was able to clear southern Quezon of New People’s Army guerrillas.

Col. Cornelio Valencia, 76th IB commanding officer, is also the Contingent Commander of the 4PCGH. The contingent is composed of 49 officers and 278 enlisted personnel.