Cebu city: Philippine Army (PA) commander Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete commended the Cebu City-based 53rd Engineering Brigade (EBde) for its dedicated security and development work within the Visayas Region, focusing on remote areas.
According to Philippines News Agency, Nafarrete delivered his commendation during the 40th anniversary celebration of the 53rd EBde at Camp Lapu-Lapu, where he served as the guest of honor and speaker. PA spokesperson Col. Louie Demala shared that Nafarrete highlighted the brigade’s professionalism, competence, and reliability, which have been pivotal in their service to the entire Visayas region. Nafarrete praised the brigade’s significant achievements, particularly in fostering inclusive progress in “geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas” (GIDAs) by implementing essential infrastructure projects, conducting disaster response operations, and initiating community development programs.
The 53rd EBde’s role extends to civil-military operations that aim to bridge the gap between government services and the people. Their responsibilities include providing mobility, counter-mobility, and survivability support to PA units, executing civil works projects to aid nation-building, and participating in disaster response efforts such as relief, rescue, and rehabilitation operations. Additionally, the unit assists local governments and other agencies in preserving natural resources and maintaining ecological balance.
