53rd Engineer Brigade marks silver year

CEBU, Philippines – The 53rd Engineer Brigade of the Philippine Army commemorated its 25th founding anniversary, which was highlighted by the giving of awards to those who have been supporting the "Kalayaan sa Barangay Program".

The unit, which calls itself "Visayas Builders," handed out over plaques of appreciation to personnel and civilians for their contribution to the success of the program.

At least 274 infrastructure projects were scheduled to be completed by the 53rd Engineer Brigade in 96 barangays in Central Visayas before the end of 2010. These in-clude 63 farm to market roads, 49 water systems, 67 school buildings and a day care center, 41 health centers, three sanitary units, 37 electrification projects, and 13 street lights. 

Days prior to the celebration, the unit conducted a series of activities, including a bloodletting activity in coordination with the Philippine Red Cross-7 where 9,000 cc of blood of various types were donated.

All personnel likewise participated in the Fun Run "to enhance the spirit of the anniversary celebration."

Last August 26, a thanksgiving mass was celebrated and officiated by Capt. Randolph Lanaja, the Brigade chaplain. The mass was attended by no less than the Brigade Commander, Col. Mariano Veloria, his wife, battalion commanders with their ladies, Special and Technical Staffs including their officers, enlisted personnel and civilian em-ployees.

Major. Gen. Arturo Ortiz, PA Commanding General who also attended the activity, stressed in his speech the laudable accomplishments of the brigade in the country-side to support the socio-economic development of the entire Visayas.

Veloria, meanwhile, in his anniversary message, urged every member of the unit to continue doing their respective responsibilities well and to always strive for excel-lence.

The unit commemorated its founding anniversary as part of the finest traditions in the Armed Forces of the Philippines with the theme: "Team 53: Kaagapay sa Kaunlaran at Kapayapaan sa Kabisayaan." (FREEMAN)