ILOILO — Recently retired Philippine Army 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) commander Major General Michael Samson received multiple commendations from the Iloilo Provincial Government, the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC), and the Iloilo Sangguniang Panlalawigan, recognizing his leadership and contributions to peace, order, and public safety in Western Visayas as he left the military service.
The honors were conferred during the flag-raising ceremony at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol on July 13, highlighting Samson’s role in strengthening security and fostering close collaboration between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and local government units throughout his stint as commander of the 3ID.
The Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC), chaired by Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr., approved PPOC Resolution No. 2026-14, commending Samson for his “exemplary leadership, dedicated service, and significant contributions” as commander of the 3rd Infantry Division.
The Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC), also chaired by Defensor, likewise passed Resolution No. 8, recognizing Samson for his “exemplary and unwavering service” as the council’s vice chairperson and for his “outstanding leadership, and significant contributions in peace and order and public safety in Western Visayas.”
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan, led by Vice Gov. Nathalie Ann Debuque, also adopted a separate resolution honoring Samson’s performance and service.
Defensor personally handed the commendations to Samson, together with Provincial Administrator Raul Banias, 4th District Provincial Board member Rolando Distura, Provincial Legal Officer Atty. Dennis Ventilacion, and provincial department heads.
In his acceptance speech, Samson thanked the Iloilo Provincial Government for the recognition, describing it as one of the most meaningful honors he had received during his three decades in military service.
“This recognition as former commander of the 301st Infantry Brigade based in Dingle, Iloilo and the outgoing commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, of all the awards a soldier may received throughout his career this is among the most meaningful. Medals and decorations bestowed by the Armed Forces are indeed treasure but there is something truly special about being recognized by your own home province,” Samson said.
He added: “To be honored by the very people you have served, by the community you call home is a distinction that carries a special place in my heart.”
Samson said: “I am accept this award with deep gratitude not only as a personal honor but as a recognition of the collective efforts of the brave men and women of the Armed Forces, our local government leaders, our partners agencies, and every Ilonggo who work with us in pursuit of peace. Iloilo has always been my home because it is my home even after my retirement. I have always believe that it is my duty as a soldier and as a commander to do everything within my authority to keep it safe, peaceful and secure. There is no greater fulfillment than knowing that the place where your family lives and where future generations will grow can enjoy peace and progress.”
He stressed that peace is the shared responsibility of the entire nation and credited Iloilo’s continued support for helping achieve peace and security in Western Visayas as he prepares to retire later this month./PN
