CAPAS, Tarlac – The Philippine Army’s Armor “Pambato” Division continued its golden anniversary celebrations on Thursday, June 5, 2026, with a Media Day, interview, and fellowship shoot involving journalists from the Armor Division Press Corps.
The event, held at the division’s headquarters in Camp O’Donnell, Capas, Tarlac, was part of a series of activities leading up to its official founding anniversary on June 16. This year’s theme is “Armor Division @50: Sandigan ng Matatag na Hukbong Katihan.”
The program began with a meet-and-greet between the press corps and military officers at the conference room, led by Lt. Col. Victor P. Leopoldo (ARM) PA, Acting Chief, Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO).
The media gathering was graced by the Armor Division Commander, Maj. Gen. Ronel R. Manalo, whose presence the press corps considered a great honor. As the highest official of the division, his attendance underscored the importance the military places on its relationship with the media.
In his welcome remarks, Maj. Gen. Manalo called the media “our secret weapon.” He thanked the journalists for attending despite their demanding coverage schedules.
“Anniversaries are not about looking back at achievements, they are also about reconnecting with the people who tell the story along the way,” Manalo said. “And for the last 50 years, many of those stories reached the public because of people like you.”
He added: “The military and media may come from different environments, but both carry the responsibility of building and protecting public trust in their own way. Let us always remember that the center of every story, whether military or media, are people.”
He then expressed his appreciation to the press for helping document not only the division’s milestones but also the spirit behind them, adding that the Armor Division is honored to have the media with them as they begin celebrating 50 years.
The event also featured the oath-taking ceremony of the newly elected officers and board of directors of the Armor Division Press Corps.
Angel Faith Danganan, the 7th president of the press corps, expressed gratitude to the military for its unwavering support and trust.
“As president, I look forward to working mostly with all of you, strengthening our organization, the Armor Division Press Corps, fostering professionalism, promoting responsible journalism, and building a trusted partnership with the community and institution,” Danganan said.
She urged her colleagues: “Let us continue to uphold the highest standard of truth, fairness, and public service in our profession.”
After the formal program, participants had the opportunity to ride in the Guarani 6×6 armored vehicle before proceeding from the motor pool to the pistol range for a fellowship shoot, which began with a comprehensive gun safety briefing. The activity fostered camaraderie between the military and media personnel in a controlled and professional setting.
The day concluded with the awarding of tokens appreciation to the participating journalists and officers, followed by a traditional boodle fight—a hallmark of Filipino military hospitality that symbolizes equality and brotherhood.
The event reaffirmed the enduring partnership between the Armor Division and the media, built on mutual trust, transparency, and a shared commitment to serving the Filipino people.
