MAGPET, Cotabato — The Philippine Army’s 28th Infantry (Kamagong) Battalion has returned home following its deployment to Lanao del Sur in support of the September 14, 2026 Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliamentary Elections, earning recognition from the leadership of the 10th Infantry (Agila) Division for its service during the election security mission.
Major General Alvin Luzon, commander of the 10th Infantry Division, welcomed the battalion’s officers and enlisted personnel during a homecoming ceremony held on September 24, 2026, in Barangay Poblacion, Magpet, Cotabato. The ceremony marked the conclusion of the unit’s election security assignment and recognized the personnel’s contribution to efforts to ensure peaceful and orderly elections.
During their deployment, the 28IB operated under the operational control of the 101st Infantry Brigade and was attached to Joint Task Force Zampelan. Its mission involved securing polling centers, election-related facilities, critical installations, and other areas identified as requiring heightened security during the electoral process.
The battalion’s deployment formed part of the broader security arrangements for the first BARMM Parliamentary Elections, an important milestone in the region’s parliamentary transition. Its personnel were tasked with helping maintain security and supporting the orderly conduct of election activities in Lanao del Sur.
In recognition of their meritorious service, five officers and five enlisted personnel received the Military Merit Medal during the homecoming ceremony. The awards acknowledged their contributions and service throughout the election security operation.
Luzon, joined by Brigadier General Apollo Jun Lamaton, commander of the 1002nd Infantry (Bagwis) Brigade, commended the returning soldiers for demonstrating professionalism, discipline, dedication, and commitment in carrying out their responsibilities.
The division commander also acknowledged the sacrifices made by the troops’ families, whose steadfast support helped sustain the soldiers throughout their deployment away from home.
“You have done your duty and represented the Agila Division with honor. Today, the Agila family is proud to have you back,” Luzon said.
He urged the returning personnel to carry forward the lessons and experiences gained during the mission and apply them to their future assignments, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the division’s core values of Accountability, Growth, Integrity, Loyalty, and Achievement through Excellence.
The homecoming ceremony underscored the Army’s recognition of the personnel’s contribution to election security and the importance of discipline, teamwork, and family support in fulfilling military responsibilities.
With the deployment concluded, the returning troops are expected to bring the experience gained in Lanao del Sur to their continuing duties as members of the Agila Division.