CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City — Following the successful culmination of the PH-Australia Exercise “Kasangga” 2025-1, the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, Philippine Army, hosted a Fellowship Concert on June 24, 2025, at Montalvan Hall, Camp Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City, as a celebration of friendship, cultural solidarity, and mutual commitment to peace.
Highlighting the evening was renowned Australian country singer and songwriter Amber Lawrence, who captivated the audience with her heartfelt performances. Her presence served not only as a cultural highlight but also as a symbol of the growing partnership and deepening ties between the Philippine Army and the Australian Defense Force.
Ms. Lawrence, known for her songs about resilience, community, and service, connected powerfully with both Filipino and Australian troops, as well as local civilian guests.
The Fellowship Concert was one of the concluding activities of Exercise Kasangga 2025-1, a bilateral training initiative focused on enhancing interoperability and defense cooperation. It provided an opportunity for reflection and celebration, honoring the camaraderie developed throughout the training. The event was attended by 4ID officers, enlisted personnel, civilian human resource, and their dependents, promoting unity across the entire 4ID community.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the 4ID Band performed a dynamic lineup of OPM and international hits, encouraging lively interaction, dance, and fellowship among attendees. Music and shared meals filled the hall, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and transforming the evening into a meaningful cultural exchange and reaffirmation of a strong partnership.
In his statement, Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., Commander of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, emphasized that the Fellowship Concert symbolized more than entertainment, it was a reaffirmation of the soldiers’ role as instruments of peace and unity.
“As we conclude Exercise Kasangga 2025-1, this Fellowship Concert reflects the deeper purpose of our mission, not just to train, but to build bridges of understanding and solidarity. Through music, we celebrate the strength of our partnership with the Australian Defense Force and our shared commitment to securing lasting peace for the communities we serve,” he said.
The Fellowship Concert capped off the joint exercise on a high note, a powerful reminder that peace and understanding are built not only through training and operations, but also through shared human experiences.