ILOILO — In a moving tribute to Filipino heroism, the 604th Community Defense Center, 6th Regional Community Defense Group, Reserve Command of the Philippine Army, marked the 162nd birth anniversary of national hero Andres Bonifacio on November 30 with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony and a tree-planting activity in Maasin, Iloilo.
The activity was led by Colonel Michael N. Asuncion, who underscored the importance of honoring Bonifacio’s sacrifices and enduring contribution to the nation’s quest for freedom.
The ceremony gathered a significant number of participants, including personnel from the 604th Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion and troops from the 12th Infantry Battalion under the leadership of 1st Lieutenant Vincent Reymond V. Raymundo.
Representing the local government, Maasin’s Mayor Francis A. Amboy expressed his gratitude to the Army and local veterans for their unwavering commitment to public service and nation-building.
Also in attendance were members of the Iloilo veterans community, represented by Hannibal S. Lipardo, regional director of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines (VFP) Region 6, and Major General Romeo D. Alamillo (ret.), VFP President and CEO. Their presence highlighted the strong partnership between the military and veteran organizations in honoring national heroes.
Following the wreath-laying ceremony, the community defense team shifted its efforts toward environmental stewardship through a tree-planting initiative at the Maasin Watershed.
In support of ongoing reforestation efforts, more than 300 coffee seedlings were planted, reflecting the Philippine Army’s commitment to environmental conservation alongside its security duties.
After the activities in Maasin, members of the 604th CDC and reservists from the 604th Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion joined the Bonifacio Day Parade in Bonifacio, Tanza, Iloilo City. The vibrant procession featured ROTC units from various schools and universities, along with civic groups, all united in celebrating Bonifacio’s legacy.
The series of events not only honored the heroism of Andres Bonifacio but also sought to inspire a renewed spirit of patriotism within the community.
Through these meaningful initiatives, the Philippine Army — working in partnership with local organizations and veterans — helped foster a deeper sense of national pride and civic responsibility. As the commemoration concluded, the collective commitment to honoring the past while building a sustainable future stood as a fitting tribute to Bonifacio’s enduring legacy./PN
