TALAKAG, BUKIDNON — The troops of the 8th Infantry (Dependable) Battalion have officially concluded their Battalion Evaluation and Certification Program (BECP), held at Sitio Libertad, Barangay Dominorog, from August 25 to September 5, 2025.
The two-week training activity subjected the Dependable Battalion to a rigorous evaluation, ultimately validating its operational readiness and capability to serve as a reliable unit of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, Philippine Army.
The BECP was spearheaded by the Exercise Directorate under the leadership of Colonel Cezar Conte Jr., Chief of Staff of the 4ID. Oversight was entrusted to Colonel Julius Cesar Paulo, Assistant Chief of Staff for Education and Training (G8), who served as Chief Controller. The Exercise Control Group was led by Colonel Jerold H. Jale, Commandant of the 4th Division Training School, while Colonel Ryan Charles G. Callanta, Group Commander of the 1st Training Group, Training Command, Philippine Army, served as Head Evaluator.
Throughout the certification, Dependable troopers underwent marksmanship evaluation, Staff Exercise (STAFFEX), and Troop Leading Procedure (TLP). The program culminated in a large-scale Field Training Exercise (FTX) that showcased the battalion’s combat proficiency and readiness for full-spectrum operations.
The FTX simulated real-world combat and support scenarios, including trainer guns replicating field artillery fire, technical operations with Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units, and helicopter-based activities such as casualty evacuation (CASEVAC), troop insertion, resupply, and close air support. These activities were aligned with the 4ID’s Territorial Defense Operations mandate.
Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., Commander of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, commended the Dependable Battalion for successfully completing the program, stressing the importance of its validated capabilities.
“The successful conclusion of this Battalion Evaluation and Certification Program proves that the Dependable Battalion is combat-ready, disciplined, and highly capable of accomplishing its mission. This achievement reflects the Diamond Division’s strength and the Philippine Army’s firm resolve to defend our people and secure our land against all threats,” Anayron said.
The BECP is a crucial requirement for infantry units, ensuring that operational standards, leadership, and combat readiness are consistently met in line with the Philippine Army’s mission to safeguard national security.