BAGUMBAYAN, Sultan Kudarat — The 7th Infantry (TAPAT) Battalion marked its 52nd Founding Anniversary on July 1, 2025, with a celebration that highlighted the unit’s contributions to peace, development, and counterinsurgency efforts in the province.
The event, held at the battalion headquarters in Barangay Kapaya, was graced by Major General Donald M. Gumiran, Commander of the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division and Joint Task Force Central (JTFC), who lauded the 7IB for its pivotal role in suppressing communist terrorist elements in its area of responsibility.
“The 7IB has consistently shown what it means to be ‘TAPAT,’” said Major General Gumiran in his keynote address. “Your intensified military and intelligence-driven operations have weakened the remnants of the Sub-Regional Committee Daguma and disrupted other local terrorist activities. These efforts significantly support our collective goal of peace and security in the province.”
Gumiran commended the unit not only for its tactical gains but also for exemplifying a compassionate approach to service. He highlighted the peaceful resolution of a decades-long “rido” or clan war as one of 7IB’s most impactful achievements this year—proof that long-standing conflicts can be resolved through dialogue and sustained community engagement.
The battalion has also been active in civil-military initiatives, such as the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) program, the Friend Rescued Program, youth summits, medical missions, and community outreach activities. These programs underscore the battalion’s commitment to inclusive service and community development.
Major General Gumiran particularly cited the unit’s “Pabuka ng Tapat, Serbisyong Tapat sa Sultan Kudarat” as a best practice that embodies the battalion’s respect for cultural diversity and faith while promoting good governance and grassroots involvement.
He attributed these accomplishments to the capable leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Tristan Rey P. Vallescas, Commanding Officer of 7IB, and the unwavering dedication of the battalion’s officers and enlisted personnel.
The anniversary carried the theme: “Limampu’t dalawang Taong Paglilingkod ng Tapat sa Bayan, Para sa Kapayapaan, Kaunlaran at Kinabukasan” or “52 Years of Faithful Service to the Nation, for Peace, Progress, and the Future.”
As the battalion celebrates over five decades of public service, its legacy continues to grow—anchored on discipline, integrity, and a deep commitment to lasting peace in Sultan Kudarat and beyond.