Zamboanga City, Philippines – The Joint Task Force (JTF) Poseidon has officially activated three Joint Task Groups (JTGs) to bolster maritime monitoring and ensure stability in the Western Mindanao’s Joint Area of Operations (JAO). The activation ceremony took place on September 12, 2024, at the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Gymnasium, Camp Navarro, Calarian.
Strengthening Maritime Security
The newly activated JTGs—JTG Atlas, JTF Triton, and JTF Pegasus—are tasked with handling distinct domains within JTF Poseidon’s mission. These groups are under the respective commands of Brig. Gen. Nestor Narag Jr. of the 2nd Marine Brigade (2MBde), Captain Hilarion D. Cesista of the Naval Task Force 61 (NTF61), and Col. Edward Cervantes of the Naval Installation Facility-Western Mindanao (CNIF-WM) and the Tactical Operations Group Sulu – Tawi-Tawi (TOG SulTaw), represented by Col. Byron de Ocampo during the ceremony.
Leadership and Commendations
The activation ceremony was presided over by Rear Admiral Francisco Tagamolila Jr., Commander of JTF Poseidon, with Lt. Gen. Charlton Sean Gaerlan, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), serving as the guest of honor and speaker. Lt. Gen. Gaerlan praised JTF Poseidon for its significant developments and spirited efforts under Rear Admiral Tagamolila Jr.’s leadership since its activation on July 9. He expressed his full trust and confidence in the commanders of the three JTGs, highlighting their exceptional capabilities and leadership.
Phased Activation Process
The activation of the JTGs was conducted in three phases: Preparation, Execution, and Termination. The Preparation Phase involved a series of coordinating conferences to plan and coordinate among the concerned units and offices. The Execution Phase marked the official activation ceremony, attended by military units constituting the JTGs. The Termination Phase involved the return of all key personalities and participants to their respective stations.
Notable Attendees
The event was also attended by Brig. Gen. Aldrin Annani, WestMinCom Deputy Commander for External Defense Operations (EDOs); Col. Montano Almodovar, WestMinCom Acting Chief of the Unified Command Staff (ACUCS); and other key officers and invited guests.
Moving Forward
The activation of these JTGs represents a significant step in enhancing maritime security and monitoring in the Southwestern Frontier. JTF Poseidon remains committed to addressing the evolving operational environment and ensuring stability in the region.
