IHL MONTH 2025 || Western Command Participates in the Commemoration of International Humanitarian Law
Western Command (WESCOM) joins the global community in commemorating International Humanitarian Law (IHL). With the theme, "Galvanising Commitment to International Humanitarian Law: Challenges and Opportunities in the Asia-Pacific Region," WESCOM reaffirms its unwavering commitment to uphold and observe the principles of IHL by protecting the vulnerable, respecting human rights, and ensuring that humanity is preserved even amid armed conflict.
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WATCH: BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06) showcased its 35mm Close-In Weapon System (CIWS) during the first Philippine-India Maritime Cooperative Activity in the West Philippine Sea. | via @jessiecruzat
PRESS RELEASE (05 AUGUST 2025)
WESTERN COMMAND
Authenticated by: COL NEP V PADUA PN(M)(GSC)
Chief, Public Information Office, WESCOM
Mobile: 0917 894 5028
Email: [email protected]
VALOR AND COMMITMENT || Western Command Joins Nationwide Flag Raising Ceremony in Observance of International Humanitarian Law Month and Recognizes Exemplary Offices and Personnel
CAMP RICARTE, Puerto Princesa City – In observance of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Month, Western Command (WESCOM) participated in the simultaneous flag-raising ceremony yesterday, August 4, 2025. The ceremony reflected WESCOM’s reaffirmed commitment to International Humanitarian Law, which aims to reduce the impact of armed conflict by protecting non-combatants and limiting the conduct of warfare to uphold humanitarian principles. The morning colors, a time-honored military tradition held in front of the WESCOM Headquarters, brought together officers, enlisted personnel, members of Joint Task Forces, Tenant Units, and Civilian Human Resources of the Command.
Following the ceremony, an awarding program was held to recognize exceptional offices and personnel for their exemplary performance and service. The Office of the Assistant Chief of Unified Command Staff for Reservist and Retiree Affairs, U9, was named Best Office Scoreboard for May 2025, while the Office of the Assistant Chief of Unified Command Staff for Intelligence, U2, received the same distinction for June 2025.
In addition, sixty-five (65) personnel from Marine Battalion Landing Team – 9 (MBLT-9) were awarded the Military Merit Medal for their meritorious service during a vital mobile patrol and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operation amidst heavy rains and severe flooding brought by Tropical Storm "Crising" in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, from July 17 to 18, 2025. Their exceptional competence and dedication significantly contributed to the success of the mission.
Twelve (12) personnel from MBLT-9 were further recognized with the Bronze Cross Medal for acts of heroism involving risk of life during HADR operations, alongside eleven (11) personnel from Naval Installation Facilities – West (NIF-West), who are part of the Disaster Risk Reduction Team. These individuals were cited for their courageous actions during the height of Typhoon "Crising," despite the risks involved.
Vice Admiral Alfonso F. Torres Jr. PN, Commander, WESCOM, delivered the message of the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), reaffirming the AFP’s firm adherence to IHL, especially during the conduct of military operations. He emphasized the AFP’s efforts, through the Center for Law of Armed Conflict, to strengthen partnerships and institutionalize IHL within its ranks. VAdm Torres concluded his message by commending the awardees for their dedication and service, encouraging all personnel to strive for excellence not only for recognition but in steadfast pursuit of WESCOM and the AFP’s mission.
The morning colors ceremony continues to serve as a powerful reminder of the discipline, unity, and devotion to duty that define the members of the Armed Forces. A tradition rooted in respect for the flag and the enduring values of honor and country.
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🕊️ August is International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Month! ⚖️
This August 2025, we reaffirm our commitment to uphold the laws of war and protect human dignity—even in times of armed conflict.
🇵🇭🤝
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BASAHIN | Tiniyak ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. na patuloy ang recovery at relief efforts ng pamahalaan sa mga lalawigang sunod-sunod na sinalanta ng bagyong #KristinePH at #LeonPH.
#RP1News#RadyoPilipinas
SIERRA MADRE | THE NATURAL & NAVAL DEFENDERS OF THE PHILIPPINES
The Sierra Madre mountain range and the BRP Sierra Madre—two protectors, one purpose. The mountains shield Luzon from typhoons, while the BRP Sierra Madre stands firm at Ayungin Shoal, defending our sovereignty. Together, they embody our resilience. Let’s protect them, as they protect us.
#BRPSierraMadre #SierraMadre #AyunginShoal #WestPhilippineSea
The Philippine Navy joins our maritime nation in reflection and honor this All Saints’ and All Souls’ Day 2024.
PN @126: Toward a Modern Naval Force Capable of Securing the State and Contributing to Regional Peace
#ProtectingtheSeasSecuringOurFuture#ModernandMultiCapablePHNavy
Patuloy na pinagkakatiwalaan at sinusuportahan ng mga Pilipino si Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. matapos manguna sa mga top government official sa bansa na may pinakamataas na trust and approval ratings.
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TUNGO SA PAGBABAGO | Panoorin kung paano nakamit ng isang dating rebelde ang isang masaya at tahimik na pamumuhay kasama ang kanyang pamilya, sa tulong ng Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP). Ang kwentong ito mula sa 4th Infantry Division, ay patunay na ang tunay na pagbabago ay posible sa tulong ng gobyerno, at sa pagkakaisa ng Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas at iba-t ibang sektor ng pamahalaan.
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UNDAS 2024 | These All Saints' and All Souls' Day, let us remember our loved ones and honor our heroes who continue to inspire us as we serve the people and secure our land.
The Department of National Defense joins our brothers and sisters of the Christian faith in commemorating this All Saints’ Day.
May the lives led by the holy men and women, both known and unknown to the Church, serve as our guiding light in the lives we lead today.
#DNDPHL
The Philippine Air Force stands united with the Filipino people in commemorating All Saints' and All Souls' Day.
As we light candles and offer prayers, we honor and remember the sacrifices and legacy of our departed loved ones and fallen heroes.
2024 International Canoe Federation Dragon Boat World Championship opens in Puerto Princesa
CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City—The 2024 International Canoe Federation (ICF) Dragon Boat World Championship officially opened today, October 31, in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, with General Romeo S. Brawner Jr., Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (CSAFP), representing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
The opening ceremony featured traditional Palawan performances, setting an energetic tone for the days of competition ahead. The AFP, in collaboration with local government units and agencies, played a vital role in ensuring the security and smooth conduct of the event, as Puerto Princesa prepares to welcome teams and fans from around the globe.
The 2024 ICF Dragon Boat World Championship will run until November 5, bringing together teams for a series of thrilling races and cultural exchanges, promoting camaraderie and excellence in the sport of dragon boating.
Photos by SSg Ambay/PAOAFP
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