The administrative building of the Philippine Army’s 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion (53IB) was blessed and inaugurated on Monday, January 24, 2021, at the 53IB Headquarters in Guipos, Zamboanga del Sur, in a simple inauguration ceremony with the theme “Matapat @ 37: Victory in Time of Convergence.”
Under the leadership of Leonardo “Jun” Babasa Jr., the 2nd District of Zamboanga del Sur donated the Corporal Sanoria Administrative Building, which cost P1,595,735.18, which was developed and completed from June 23 to October 15, 2021.
He extended his gratitude to the 53IB for its peacekeeping efforts in Zamboanga del Sur, particularly in the 2nd Congressional District in his statement.
“I express my utmost gratitude to 53IB under the able and competent leadership of Lt. Col. Herrera for maintaining the peace and bringing about progress and development in ZamboSur’s 2nd District,” said Cong. Babasa.
Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera, the Commanding Officer of the 53IB, conveyed his gratitude to Cong. Babasa, Municipal Mayors, and other stakeholders present for the continued partnership and convergence in bringing progress and development in the 2nd District of Zamboanga del Sur.
“Convergence play a vital role in keeping our area safe. Let us continue this close partnership to sustain progress and development in 2nd District of Zamboanga del Sur,” said Lt. Col. Herrera.
The facility was named after late Corporal Sherwin Sanoria who paid the ultimate sacrifice for the people of Zamboanga del Sur during the encounter against Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) at Barangay Balimbingan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur on January 18, 2007.
