ILOILO CITY: Finish the fight on insurgency in Panay.

This was the first order and challenge posed by Maj. Gen. Marion Sison, the commander of the Army's 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division, to the newly installed commanding officers of the two infantry battalions.

"Lick the enemy, totally decimate and eradicate them, in coordination with the local government units, civil society organizations, the private, religious, and the business sectors, in order to establish just and lasting peace in Panay," Sison said.

Sison made the directive during change of command ceremonies for the 82nd (Bantay Laya) and the 12th (Lick 'Em) Infantry Battalions.

He added that Panay Island is a sleeping dragon and one of the remaining bastions of the communist terrorist group.

Sison also encouraged the 82IB to collaborate closely with local authorities and partners to dismantle remaining guerilla fronts.

"We cannot accomplish this mission without the support and collaboration of our stakeholders and local chief executives serving as chairmen of the Local Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict," he said.

"It is crucial to coordinate, cooperate, and maintain open communication with our partners, as they play a vital role in helping us bring an end to the insurgency in Panay. It is essential to recognize that the resolution of this problem requires not only military action but also the effective implementation of Task Force Elcac as the best solution."

The change of command ceremonies saw Lt. Col. Jovert Pimentel and Lt. Col. Vicel Jan Garsuta assuming command of the 82nd and 12th IBs, respectively.

"The change of command ceremony marked a milestone for the army officers in upholding commitment and dedication to the organization. Thus, the army officers must maintain organizational dynamics and professional growth," said Sison, emphasizing the outgoing battalion commanders' efforts in maintaining peace and security in Panay Island.