NEW MILITARY CHIEF. Maj. Gen. Noe Alberto Q. Peñafiel delivers his message during the turnover ceremony marking his official assumption of post as the new commander of the Army's 9th Infantry Division in Pili, Camarines Sur on Monday (Aug. 5, 2024). Peñafiel is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Sambisig Class of 1991. (Photo from Brig. Gen Andre P. Dizon's Facebook page)
LEGAZPI CITY – The new commander of the Philippine Army's 9th Infantry Division (9ID), Maj. Gen. Noe Alberto Q. Peñafiel, said under his leadership, the division would focus on WIN – Work as a team, Innovate for the campaign, and Nurture peace and preparedness for defense.
"As I ponder the trust, confidence, and inspiration of our environment and the gains of my predecessor, WIN comes to mind. Indeed, there is no alternative but to win. And we shall further WIN our mandate for country, people, and Bicolandia," Peñafiel said in a statement on Tuesday.
He added that holding the reins of leadership at 9ID is an honor and a great challenge.
Peñafiel replaces Maj. Gen. Adonis R. Bajao, who reached the mandatory retirement age.
Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, commanding general of the Philippine Army, presided over the change of command ceremony at Camp Elias Angeles in Pili, Camarines Sur on Monday.
"He (Peñafiel) will serve as the 18th commander of more than 6,000 soldiers of the 9ID. Maj. Gen. Peñafiel lauded Maj. Gen. Bajao for his God-centered direction for the troops and for successfully leading the 9ID to unprecedented achievements, highlighting that he is again honored to follow in his footsteps," Maj. Frank Roldan, 9ID spokesperson, said in an interview.
Before his new assignment, Peñafiel was the internal auditor of the General Headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
He is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Sambisig Class of 1991.
From 2020 to 2021, he served the Bicolanos as commander of the 903rd Infantry "Patriot" Brigade, covering Albay, Sorsogon, and Masbate. (PNA)
