Brigadier General Jason Jumawan, the newly installed commander of the Philippine Army’s 302nd Infantry Brigade (IB), pledged to undertake the brigade’s mission with a sense of urgency, preparedness, and high troop morale.
Jumawan made the declaration as he assumed command during a ceremony at Camp Leon Kilat in Tanjay City.
Jumawan succeeded Brigadier General Joey Escanillas as the 29th commander of the brigade, thanking him for his role in advancing peace and security in Negros Oriental.
“I will continue the sole duty to win the peace for its people of Central Visayas and Negros Island Region, but I can only do this with the help of our local chief executives and the community,” Jumawan said.
He said the brigade will focus on carrying out its mission with a strong sense of urgency, instilled in every soldier to act decisively while avoiding complacency.
Preparedness, he added, will extend beyond combat operations to include disaster response.
Jumawan also underscored the importance of maintaining high troop morale.
“We will always be supportive of the peace process and we will continue to reach out to our brothers to choose the peaceful path, but those who insist in taking up arms to threaten the well-being of our people and community we will apply necessary force,” the commander said.
Governor Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria welcomed Jumawan’s appointment, highlighting the brigade’s critical role in ensuring safety and stability in the province.
“The 302nd Infantry has a vital role in the province. Your presence assures our people of safety and stability. Your service is not limited to the battlefield. You have also been first responders in calamities, partners in development, and a steady force for peace,” said Sagarbarria.
Before his new post, Jumawan served as assistant chief of staff for operations at the Philippine Army headquarters in Metro Manila under then-Army commanding general and now Armed Forces of the Philippines chief General Romeo Brawner, Jr.
He was also a former commanding officer of the 82nd Infantry Battalion and executive officer of the 301st Infantry Brigade. (PIA – NIR Negros Oriental)