CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) – The 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division embarks on a new chapter as Brigadier General Michele B. Anayron Jr. assumes command, vowing to uphold the unit’s legacy of excellence and unity.
In a turnover ceremony at Camp Evangelista on January 28, Anayron formally took over leadership from Brigadier General Consolito P. Yecla, pledging dedication to duty and national security.
Brigadier General Yecla, who served as the acting commander of the 4ID, expressed his gratitude to the troops and staff for their steadfast support during his tenure.
In his farewell address, he underscored the division’s accomplishments under his leadership and voiced his confidence in the capabilities of the incoming commander.
“Heartfelt congratulations. We, your fellow staff of the PMA Class of 1992, are very proud of you. Rest assured that I will leverage my experiences and knowledge to assist you in achieving our command vision. Together, we shall continue striving for excellence,” Yecla said.
He further expressed his full support and trust in the Diamond Troopers, emphasizing that they would continue to uphold the division’s high standard of service under their new commander.
Upon assuming command, Anayron emphasized the value of unity, dedication, and service. He urged the troops to remain steadfast in their commitment to duty and national security.
“Let us set aside comfort for the greater good. The strength of our nation depends on how united we are as a division, an army, and an armed force. We will remain effective, dedicated, and united in fulfilling our duties and, most importantly, achieving success,” Anayron said.
Lieutenant General Roy M. Galido, Commanding General of the Philippine Army, presided over the ceremony and emphasized the importance of strategic and efficient leadership. He challenged the new commander to adopt a forward-thinking mindset aligned with national economic and security goals.
“We will never have a strong army if our economy is not strong. In line with our Commander-in-Chief’s vision, agricultural production must serve as a foundation for economic growth,” Galido stated.
He further stressed the need for leadership that maximizes resources and efficiency.
“Earlier, during the executive session, I told Mich: ‘You have an impressive office; it’s a corporate environment.’ I hope you understand that you need to think corporately. Be efficient, be effective, and maximize our resources.”
The Change of Command Ceremony not only marked a smooth transition in leadership but also reaffirmed the 4ID’s commitment to excellence. Under Anayron’s leadership, the division is expected to continue its mission of ensuring peace and security while embracing innovative strategies that contribute to national development.