Army Activates Brigade Combat Team vs Terrorism, Insurgency

Philippine Army activated its 1stBrigade Combat Team that is focused on countering terrorism and insurgency.

It will be the service branch’s rapid deployable unit with the right force-mix to any area of strategic significance.

“As a contingency force, it will provide operational flexibility and will be the decisive force in times of crisis or armed conflict situation,” Philippine Army Commanding General Lieutenant General Macairog Alberto said.

The team, with headquarters based in Fort Magsaysay, is composed of two infantry and one mechanized battalions as maneuver elements, engineer combat and field artillery battalions, signal and intel as maneuver support, and medical and service support as sustainment units.

It will temporarily be attached to the 7thInfantry Division and further be placed under tactical control of Training and Doctrine Command for consolidation and organizational training.

“The activation of 1stBrigade Combat Team will definitely improve the capability of the Philippine Army to respond to any forms of situation because of its distinct characteristics as independent, rapid deployment and combined arms force,” Alberto furthered.

He added that they will continuously embark and develop concepts and strategies to remain relevant and responsive to evolving operational challenges. (CLJD/CJVF-PIA 3)