PIA Press Release
Monday, January 30, 20127th ID Commander gets new assignment in Western Visayasby Lyndon PlantillaCABANATUAN CITY, Nueva Ecija, Jan. 30 (PIA) – The seventh Infantry Division (7th ID) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has announced that its commander, Major General Jose Z. Mabanta Jr.,was tasked to run another army division in the Visayas region. “I extend my grateful appreciation and deepest gratitude for the sincere efforts of cooperation and support bestowed upon me during my two-month stint as the Division Commander. I know the same will be granted to my successor,” said General Mabanta who will be posted at the Third Infantry Division. He will be succeeded by Brigadier General Allan R. Luga who was the former commander of the 802nd Brigade of the Philippine Army. “I have relished the camaraderie and atmosphere here at Kaugnay Division and I am hard pressed to find anything like it in my next position. I had a very fruitful working experience here. My new position is just a part of the constant change in the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” General Mabanta added. Under Mabanta's command, the 7th ID had various engagements with civilians, including the division's involvement with the National Greening Program where a number of soldiers served as trainors in bamboo propagation. Such projects were aimed at helping civilian authorities bring development to poor communities. Mabanta likewise supported the proposed creation of an affairs office where army reservists, which include regional business leaders, engineers, teachers and even media practitioners, will expand the role of civilians in community development activities. Recenty, the 7th ID sought inputs from various local government authorities, church leaders, media and people's organization such as farmers to improve its internal peace and security plan. Mabanta underscored the need for involving all sectors to ensure peace and security in Central and Northern Luzon. For Mabanta, the military factor is just small piece in the resolution of conflicts and in the promotion of development. He says the support of the stakeholders, especially the community, matters more. “The continued support and cooperation of the officers and men of 7th ID have served as my driving force to perform my next duties without fail. Hence, my endless gratitude goes to each and every one. I'm looking forward that we find ourselves working together again in the future, “said Mabanta. The 7th ID will announce on a later date the change-of-command ceremonies for Mabanta. (WLB/LDRP/PIA-3) | 
