CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City — The Philippine Army has successfully concluded the Katihan Patrol 2025 – Mindanao Leg, a weeklong test of endurance, discipline, and tactical excellence, held from October 19–25, 2025, at the 1st Training Group Headquarters, Camp Kibaritan, Barangay Malinao, Kalilangan, Bukidnon.
The Katihan Patrol, a flagship program of the Philippine Army, aims to evaluate and enhance the combat readiness, tactical proficiency, leadership, and teamwork of maneuver units nationwide. This year’s Mindanao leg pushed soldiers to their limits through a series of demanding exercises designed to simulate real-world battlefield challenges.
Over seven days, participating teams navigated a grueling 48-hour long-range patrol across approximately 60 kilometers of rugged and mountainous terrain, each soldier carrying a 25-kilogram combat load. The exercise tested not only physical stamina but also mental fortitude and unit coordination—key attributes essential for modern warfare and counter-insurgency operations.
Participants demonstrated their skills in Close-Quarters Battle (CQB) and Building Clearing, Prisoner of War (POW) Handling, River Crossing, Reconnaissance, Tracking, Combat Patrolling, Rappelling, Patrol Base Operations, Call for Fire Procedures, Breaching Mine or Wire Obstacles, Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TC3), Jungle Raid, and Marksmanship.
Among the standout performers was the 23rd Infantry Battalion (4th Infantry “Diamond” Division), which earned the Silver Distinction with an impressive average rating of 86.30%, placing second in the Mindanao leg and fourth overall nationwide among 17 major participating units.
During the closing ceremony, Brig. Gen. Isagani O. Criste, Commander of the First Scout Ranger Regiment, delivered the message of Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarette, the Commanding General of the Philippine Army, who praised the soldiers’ unwavering commitment and exemplary performance.
“The Katihan Patrol is more than just a competition—it is a test of character, unity, and readiness,” Lt. Gen. Nafarette said. “Through this exercise, it has been proven that our continued success lies in unity, perseverance, and the pursuit of shared goals. As you continue to train, lead with integrity, and serve the nation with honor, remember that each of you is already a winner.”
The Katihan Patrol series, which continues to be a defining test of the Army’s operational capabilities, underscores the Philippine Army’s commitment to excellence and preparedness amid evolving national security challenges.
For the troops who braved the mountains of Bukidnon, the experience was not just a competition—but a reaffirmation of their endurance, discipline, and unyielding dedication to the Army’s mission of defending peace and freedom in every corner of the nation.