The 11th Infantry Division of the Philippine military has officially enacted a leadership transition within one of its key battalions stationed in Sulu, marking a strategic shift in command responsibilities aimed at bolstering regional stability and security operations.
Ceremony Formalizes Command Transfer
On Wednesday, February 11, 2026, a formal change of command ceremony was conducted at the headquarters of the 35th Infantry Battalion located in Tugas village, Patikul, Sulu. The event was presided over by Major General Leonardo Peña, the commander of the 11th Infantry Division, who oversaw the official relinquishment of command by outgoing Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Genzola and the assumption of duties by incoming Lieutenant Colonel Romeo Andres.
Commendations and Strategic Vision
In his address during the ceremony, Major General Peña publicly commended Lieutenant Colonel Genzola for his exemplary leadership and dedicated efforts in sustaining peace and security initiatives across Patikul and Jolo towns. Peña emphasized that achieving lasting stability in the region requires not only robust military operations but also strong collaborative partnerships with local government units, allied agencies, and the broader community.
He expressed unwavering confidence that Lieutenant Colonel Andres would effectively build upon the existing foundations and further enhance these critical community engagements to advance peace and security objectives.
Outgoing and Incoming Commanders' Remarks
Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Genzola, in his farewell remarks, extended heartfelt gratitude to his troops and various stakeholders for their unwavering trust and steadfast support throughout his tenure. He earnestly urged them to extend the same level of cooperation and commitment to the incoming commander, Lieutenant Colonel Romeo Andres.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel Romeo Andres, in accepting his new role, pledged to uphold the battalion's high standards and to diligently continue advancing peace initiatives within the battalion's designated area of responsibility. He affirmed his dedication to fostering and strengthening the vital partnerships that underpin the military's mission in Sulu.
Ceremony Attendance and Broader Implications
The change of command ceremony was attended by a diverse assembly of military personnel, local government officials, and key community partners, underscoring the integrated approach to security and governance in the region. This leadership transition reflects the 11th Infantry Division's ongoing strategic adjustments to optimize operational effectiveness and community relations in Sulu.
Lieutenant Colonel Genzola is slated for reassignment to another post within the military structure, as part of routine personnel rotations designed to infuse fresh perspectives and expertise across various units.
