WELCOME AND FAREWELL CEREMONIES FOR BRUNEI’S PEACE MONITORS

08 October 2007 – The Philippine Embassy in Brunei reported to the Department of Foreign Affairs that Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi, Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, led other invited guests which included Philippine Ambassador Virginia Benavidez, and the families of Bruneian members of the International Monitoring Team (IMT) in bidding farewell to the fourth batch headed by Major Haji Mohd Rosmandi, Company B Commander of the Third Battalion. The ceremony was held at the Royal Brunei Air Force Base on 25 September 2007. Earlier, four other IMT members left for Mindanao.

In September 2007, six members of the Third IMT group arrived in Bandar Seri Begawan after a year long tour of duty in Cotabato. The group included Majors Pengiran Zamni bin Pengiran Tajuddin and Mohammad Wata bin Abdullah Awat; Captains Alirudimi bin Haji Parudin and Arsahrin bin Haji Ariff; and Warrant Officer 1 (U) Haji Adis bin Haji Metarais and Staff Sergeant Sa’at bin Haji Sabli.

In recognition of their participation and achievements during their monitoring mission in Mindanao, the Gawad sa Kaunlaran Medal, Military Civic Action Medal, and the Honorary Philippine Armed Forces Basic Parachutist Badge were awarded the six members of the Third IMT.

Brunei Darussalam’s participation in overseas operations is considered another milestone in the country’s contributions to regional cooperation and support for peace and stability for neighboring countries. Together with IMT members from other countries, the Brunei IMT Contingent will  be responsible for observing and monitoring cessation of hostilities and the implementation of socio-economic development projects.

Ambassador Benavidez reiterated the Philippine Government’s deep appreciation for Brunei Darussalam’s active participation and continued involvement in the IMT. The third group of monitors informed Ms. Benavidez that their experiences and training in the peacekeeping mission in Mindanao have proven to be invaluable. Further, the hospitality and appreciation received from the government and the people would forever be engraved in their hearts. END.

/Allan