The Army's 1st Infantry Division has successfully graduated 76 new troopers who completed their Infantry Orientation Training (Infot) Class 07-2026 on Monday, March 2. The ceremony took place at Camp Major Cesar Sang-an in Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur, marking a significant milestone in their military careers.
Rigorous Training Program
The 1st Infantry Division emphasized that the soldiers underwent an intensive training regimen designed to equip them with essential knowledge, skills, and discipline for effective infantry operations. The comprehensive course focused on enhancing proficiency in small-unit tactics, weapons handling, fieldcraft, combat conditioning, and leadership fundamentals.
Commander's Commendation
Major General Yegor Rey Barroquillo Jr., commander of the 1st Infantry Division, praised the graduates for their determination and resilience in overcoming the physical and mental challenges of the training. During the graduation ceremony held at the Division Grandstand in Pulacan village, Labangan, he highlighted their commitment to military service.
"You are here today because you are brave and have chosen to stay true to your calling," Major General Barroquillo stated. "You now carry the knowledge and skills gained from the Candidate Soldier Course and Infantry Orientation Training, along with the honor of being warriors of the Tabak Division."
Command Philosophy and Unity
The commander elaborated on his leadership approach, emphasizing collective responsibility within the division. "My command philosophy is simple: What injures the hive injures the bee; the hive should not suffer harm," Barroquillo explained. "The hive represents our force. When one member is diminished, we are all diminished."
Ceremonial Conclusion
The graduation event concluded with the awarding of certificates and traditional rites, symbolizing the graduates' readiness to assume greater responsibilities. These ceremonies reinforced their preparedness to advance the 1st Infantry Division's mandate of securing peace and protecting communities in diverse operational environments.
The training program specifically reinforces soldier readiness to perform mission-essential tasks across various challenging scenarios. This graduation represents another step in strengthening the division's operational capabilities through well-trained personnel.
