The Philippine Army paid tribute to Major General Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II (Retired) for his exemplary leadership and dedicated service during the Retirement and Change of Command Ceremony held on January 17, 2025, at the 4ID Grandstand in Camp Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City. The event marked the conclusion of Maj. Gen. Cuerpo’s nearly 39 years of distinguished service in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Lieutenant General Roy M. Galido, Commanding General of the Philippine Army, presided over the ceremony, which also saw the transfer of command from Maj. Gen. Cuerpo to Brigadier General Consolito P. Yecla, the Acting Commander of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4ID).
The event was attended by key officers from 4ID, Brigade and Battalion Commanders, Enlisted Personnel, Civilian Human Resources (CivHR), government officials, law enforcement representatives, local government officials, stakeholders, as well as Maj. Gen. Cuerpo’s family, friends, and colleagues from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Bigkis-Lahi” Class of 1990.
A Career of Excellence and Service
Maj. Gen. Cuerpo officially retired after serving as Commander of the 4ID for 1 year, 9 months, and 17 days, following his appointment on March 24, 2024. Under his strategic leadership, the Division achieved significant operational milestones in advancing peace and development across Northern Mindanao and the Caraga region. His military career, which began with the 4ID, fittingly concluded with the same division.
During the ceremony, Maj. Gen. Cuerpo was honored with the Philippine Legion of Honor for his exceptionally meritorious conduct and outstanding service. He also received a framed medal representing his numerous combat and administrative awards, along with the Philippine flag as a symbol of the nation’s gratitude.
His wife, Mrs. Maricar P. Cuerpo, was presented with a Plaque of Appreciation for her unwavering support throughout his military journey. Maj. Gen. Cuerpo was formally incorporated into the reserve force, signifying his continued commitment to the country in a different capacity.
A Legacy of Leadership
In his valedictory speech, Maj. Gen. Cuerpo reflected on his journey and expressed confidence in the future leadership of the Division. “As I turn the page to the next chapter of my life, my heart is filled with gratitude for the people, experiences, and lessons that have shaped me into who I am today. With my retirement, I prepare to hand over the keys of this well-driven vehicle to a competent, capable, and skilled leader who will undoubtedly steer 4ID toward even greater heights,” he said.
A New Chapter for 4ID
Brigadier General Consolito P. Yecla, a member of the PMA “Tanglaw-Diwa” Class of 1992, assumed command of the 4ID. Prior to this role, BGen. Yecla served as the Assistant Division Commander of 4ID since July 31, 2024. His extensive military career includes key positions such as Deputy Commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command, Commander of Task Force Davao, and Brigade Commander of the 1003rd Infantry Brigade under the 10th Infantry Division. He also served as the Commanding Officer of the 74th Infantry Battalion under the 2nd Infantry Division.
A Fitting Farewell
The ceremony concluded with a traditional Pass-In-Review, where the Diamond Troopers marched in formation to honor Maj. Gen. Cuerpo for the last time. He exchanged salutes with the troops he led, symbolizing his final farewell to active duty.
A send-off ceremony followed, during which Maj. Gen. Cuerpo and his wife greeted the troops and expressed their heartfelt gratitude. Lt. Gen. Galido also commended Maj. Gen. Cuerpo’s leadership and accomplishments, stating, “Mistah, congratulations on a job well done.”
As Brig. Gen. Yecla takes the helm, the 4ID looks forward to continuing its mission of fostering peace and development under new leadership, building on the solid foundation laid by Maj. Gen. Cuerpo.