CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City – The President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, His Excellency President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr., has once again visited the “fightingest” division of the Philippine Army and home of the Diamond Troopers – the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, at Camp Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City, on April 22, 2025.
Upon his arrival, the President was welcomed with a traditional military arrival honor led by Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., Commander of 4ID, as the military host, as a gesture of respect and courtesy to the Commander-in-Chief.
He was joined by Lt. Gen. Luis Rex D. Bergante, Commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMiNCom), and other AFP Senior Officers based in Northern Mindanao and Caraga Region.
In his Talk to Troops at Montalvan Hall, President Marcos recognized the Philippine Army’s pivotal role as a peacemaker, citing the military’s success in helping reduce insurgency to its lowest levels in decades.
He emphasized that this achievement has allowed the Armed Forces to shift their focus toward external defense and territorial security, reflecting the country’s evolving security landscape.
“Your role as peacemaker has brought us to this point, where the role of the military is transitioning away from internal security and focusing now more on external security,” the President said.
Moreover, the President reaffirmed his unwavering support for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), emphasizing its vital role in defending the nation, its people, and its territory.
He assured military personnel that the civilian government remains fully committed to providing them with the training, resources, and equipment they need to fulfill their mission.
“In general, for the larger part, ay talaga namang inaasahan kayo lagi na magtatanggol sa ating mga kababayan, sa ating republika, at sa ating teritoryo. We, in the civilian government, are here to support you in every way that we can. We are doing all that we can to make sure that you and all of the personnel of the AFP are ready, capable, and well-trained, and have the equipment that they need so that they can do their job and fulfill their mission. Kaya ipagpatuloy lang natin ang partnership between the civilian government and the Armed Forces, and I believe that we will be able to face any challenge as long as we stand together,” he added.
Following his talk, the President formally handed over a check worth Php 28,500,00.00, earmarked for procuring various medical equipment for the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital (CESH) to enhance the division’s medical facilities.
The funding aims to boost healthcare services for soldiers, civilian staff, and their dependents as well as civilian patients.
Lastly, in a display of military camaraderie and Filipino tradition, a boodle fight was held. Side by side with the Diamond Troopers, the President shared a humble yet meaningful meal, fostering a sense of unity and sense of community.
Subsequently, after the activity, the President proceeded to the 4ID Conference Room to preside over the Regional Development Council-X (RDC-X) Meeting.
The President, together with Lt. Gen. Bergante and Maj. Gen Anayron, along with the heads of key government agencies in the region, discussed vital regional development updates, including security challenges, inter-agency coordination, and ongoing projects and programs aimed at boosting the region’s development.
This is aligned with the administration’s commitment to ensure the inclusive and continuous socio-economic growth of Northern Mindanao.
