Philippine Army rebrands primary armored unit

The Mechanized Infantry Division was renamed to Armor Division, in anticipation of the Philippine Army’s upcoming assets and the prospect of a more aggressive land defense. /PHILIPPINE ARMY

MANILA, Philippines — In anticipation of its upcoming assets and the prospect of more aggressive land defense, the Philippine Army has rebranded its primary armored unit.

The Mechanized Infantry Division has been renamed to Armor Division effective September 11, said Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala.

“This will usher in the expansion of our armored corps as we expand it by purchasing 44 tanks to be delivered next year,” he told INQUIRER.net.

The change does not entail additional personnel and equipment based on the approved table of organization and equipment, he said.

The Armor Division celebrated its anniversary at Camp O’Donell in Tarlac on Wednesday, where it showcased its new capabilities and technologies including the armor personnel carrier with remote control weapon station from Israel and Infantry fighting vehicle and mortar system.

It also launched its new moniker Pambato, which stands for “Piniling Yunit ng Hukbong Katihan na Panlaban sa Larangan ng Pakikidigma.” It also means fighter or made for battle or endurance. /kga