SULU – June 24, 2025 — Philippine Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Roy M. Galido led a multi-national delegation to Sulu on Tuesday to assess ongoing military and development initiatives and to further strengthen regional partnerships with foreign allies.
Accompanied by top Army officials, Cabinet members, and a delegation composed of foreign ambassadors from Brunei, India, Malaysia, and Vietnam, along with Foreign Armed Forces Attachés (FAFA) from Vietnam, Brunei, India, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Turkey, Lt. Gen. Galido’s visit underscored the country’s commitment to peace, development, and international cooperation in Mindanao.
Upon arrival at Jolo Airport, the delegation was warmly welcomed by Sulu Governor Abdusakur M. Tan, Maj. Gen. Leonardo I. Peña, Commander of the 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division and Joint Task Force Orion, and Provincial Police Director PCol. Jeff Uy.
The visit began with a cultural tour and dialogues with local leaders, highlighting the convergence of defense and development efforts in the province. The delegation also inspected recently rehabilitated government facilities at the Capitol and inaugurated several key infrastructure projects. Among these were the new Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng Sulu (SPS) Building, the Provincial Sports Complex, a dormitory facility, the Sulu Provincial Women Council (SPWC) Building, and the Lupah Sug Library.
A significant part of the itinerary was the formal opening of Darul Jambangan, a cultural heritage site in Maimbung, which celebrates the rich cultural identity of the Sulu archipelago.
The day’s engagements culminated in a multi-sectoral forum at the Sultan Jamalul Kiram Central School Gymnasium, attended by Department of Budget and Management Secretary Aminah Pangandaman, newly appointed Department of Education Secretary Sonny Angara, and representatives from various national agencies. Discussions focused on integrated efforts in education, governance, and regional development, especially in light of Sulu’s transition to Region IX.
Following the forum, Lt. Gen. Galido proceeded to the 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division headquarters in Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista, Barangay Busbus, where he received full military honors for his leadership and contributions to the Army’s mission in Mindanao.
During the visit, Lt. Gen. Galido presented the Philippine Army Stakeholder Award to Ms. Jainab A. Abdulmajid, Project Coordinator of Gawad Kalinga-Sulu. She was recognized for her steadfast support of peacebuilding and community development programs, particularly in uplifting vulnerable communities through strong civil-military collaboration.
In his address to officers, enlisted personnel, and civilian staff of the Alakdan Division, Lt. Gen. Galido commended the unit for its operational achievements and dedicated service to peace and security. He stressed the continued importance of discipline, unity, and partnership with stakeholders in ensuring sustained development in Sulu and the broader Mindanao region.
The high-level visit underscored the Philippine Army’s commitment to holistic peace and development, backed by the strong synergy among government, military, civil society, and international allies.