Historic Rebranding for Philippine Army Brigades
In a significant move to reinforce military heritage and operational identity, the Philippine Army has officially renamed two of its key infantry brigades in separate, solemn ceremonies held in the provinces of Basilan and Lanao del Sur. This strategic rebranding, which saw the Basilan-based 101st Brigade become the 1101st Infantry Brigade (1101Bde) and the Lanao del Sur-based 1101st Brigade revert to the 101st Infantry Brigade (101Bde), marks a pivotal moment in the Army's organizational history.
A New Chapter for Basilan's 1101st 'Gagandilan' Brigade
The renaming ceremony for the newly designated 1101st Infantry Brigade took place on Wednesday, November 26, at its headquarters in Camp Luis Biel II, located in Tabiawan village, Isabela City, Basilan. The event was presided over by Brigadier General Gregorio Nieveras, the assistant division commander of the 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division (11ID). The solemn occasion was marked by the furling of the old 101Bde unit color, honoring its decades of service, followed by the unfurling of the new 1101Bde colors, symbolizing a renewed commitment to its mission.
Brigadier General Frederick Sales formally assumed his role as the Acting Commander of the 1101st Infantry 'Gagandilan' Brigade during the ceremony. In a powerful address, Sales stated, "It is with great pride that we embrace our new designation... This renaming of our unit is far more than a change in designation. It is a reaffirmation of who we are and what we stand for." He emphasized that the change connects the brigade's present service to the legacy of past servicemen and women.
A key ritual involved all officers and enlisted personnel participating in the pinning of the new 1101Bde patch and the Alakdan Patch, formally integrating every soldier into the 11th Infantry Division. Brigadier General Nieveras underscored the deeper meaning of the event, noting, "Today marks not just a change in name, but the strengthening of our identity, purpose, and unity." He urged the troops to continue serving the people with unwavering dedication.
101st Brigade Returns to its Roots in Lanao del Sur
Meanwhile, in Malabang, Lanao del Sur, a parallel ceremony was held on Tuesday, November 25, to mark the return of the 101st Infantry Brigade to its original name. Brigadier General Yasser Bara assumed the position of acting brigade commander for the 101Bde during this event, which was presided over by Brigadier General Felix Ronnie Babac, assistant division commander of the 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division (1ID).
The ceremony featured the furling of the 1101Bde colors and the unfurling of the 101Bde unit colors, a powerful visual representation of the unit's return to its historic lineage. Brigadier General Bara described the moment as historic, stating that restoring the name was "a return to our roots, a recognition of our lineage, and a renewal of the spirit that has guided this Brigade for generations."
All troops of the brigade participated in the pinning of the Tabak Patch, officially welcoming them into the fold of the 1st Infantry Division. Brigadier General Babac reminded the soldiers that their strength lies in unity, discipline, and a strong commitment to their mission. Addressing the local communities, he added, "This Brigade is your Brigade. We exist to protect your homes, secure your future, and support the peace you deserve. Your trust is our greatest weapon."
Symbolism and a Unified Future
Both renaming ceremonies were graced by top military, police, and government officials, alongside religious leaders and private sector representatives, highlighting the broad significance of these changes for security and community relations in Mindanao. These events are not merely administrative updates but are deeply symbolic acts designed to strengthen unit cohesion, honor historical legacy, and reaffirm the Philippine Army's commitment to peace and security in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and beyond. The strategic name changes solidify a renewed identity for these brigades as they continue their vital work under new, yet historically grounded, banners.
