CAPAS, Tarlac — The Armor “Pambato” Division of the Philippine Army strengthened its partnership with the media through a Media Day and Fellowship Shoot held on June 5 at Camp O’Donnell, as part of activities leading to its 50th founding anniversary celebration.
The event gathered members of the Armor Division Press Corps, military officials, and personnel in a show of solidarity and mutual support ahead of the division’s milestone anniversary on June 16. This year’s celebration carries the theme, “Armor Division @50: Sandigan ng Matatag na Hukbong Katihan.”
Armor Division Commander Maj. Gen. Ronel R. Manalo led the gathering and underscored the importance of the media in helping communicate the division’s mission, accomplishments, and public service initiatives to Filipinos.
In his remarks, Manalo described members of the press as a vital partner in nation-building, citing their role in ensuring that accurate and relevant information reaches the public. He thanked journalists for their continued support and collaboration with the division over the years.
The activity began with an interaction between media practitioners and military officials, providing an opportunity to strengthen professional ties and foster open communication. The event was facilitated by Lt. Col. Victor P. Leopoldo (ARM) PA, Acting Chief of the Division Public Affairs Office.
Also featured during the program was the induction of the newly elected officers and board members of the Armor Division Press Corps. Incoming president Angel Faith Danganan expressed appreciation for the division’s continued engagement with the media sector and pledged to further strengthen cooperation between journalists and the military organization.
To give participants a closer look at the division’s capabilities, members of the media were treated to a familiarization ride aboard the Guarani 6×6 armored vehicle, one of the Philippine Army’s modern combat platforms. The experience was followed by a fellowship shoot at the division’s pistol range, where participants underwent a thorough gun safety orientation before the activity.
The program concluded with the presentation of tokens of appreciation and a boodle fight, symbolizing unity, camaraderie, and the enduring partnership between the military and the media.
As it approaches five decades of service, the Armor Division continues to foster stronger ties with stakeholders, particularly the media, recognizing their role in promoting transparency, public awareness, and support for the Armed Forces’ mission of safeguarding the nation. (Boni Dacayanan)