MGen Vicente MAP Blanco III PN(M), Commandant, Philippine Marine Corps, visited Sulu on August 25, 2026, as part of his official engagements in the province.
Upon arrival, the Commandant was accorded military honors and received by Major General Leonardo I. Peรฑa PA, Commander, 11th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Orion. He subsequently toured the facilities of Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista, signed the guest book, and proceeded to an executive session. The occasion also provided an opportunity to re affirm the strong professional ties and partnership between Philippine Army and PMC in pursuing their shared mission in protecting the Nation and safeguarding the Filipino people.
One of the most meaningful highlights of the visit was his return to Luuk, Sulu, where he visited the Military Park Luuk, a site of deep personal significance. He also led a wreath-laying ceremony honoring the Filipino soldiers and Lupah Sug warriors who made the ultimate sacrifice for peace and country.
During his tenure as Commander of the 4th Marine Brigade, PMC, MGen Blanco conceptualized the establishment of the Military Park. It was envisioned as both a lasting tribute to the fallen and a gift from the Brigade to the people of Sulu before the unitโs redeployment to Luzon in 2022.
Sulu has been an integral part of MGen Blancoโs military journey. His connection to the province began in the early 1990s when he was first assigned to Marine Battalion Landing Team-3 in Jolo. Over the years, he forged lasting friendships and partnerships with the people of Sulu, many of whom he took the opportunity to reconnect with during this visit.
He likewise paid a courtesy call on Hon. Al-Makram N. Arbison, Mayor of Luuk, Sulu, a longtime friend and partner in peace-building efforts. He also met with Mr. Reymar Wee, a close friend and trusted stakeholder who has consistently supported the Philippine Marine Corpsโ efforts and leadership initiatives in the province.
The visit underscored not only the Commandantโs continuing commitment to the Marines and the people of Sulu, but also the enduring bonds of friendship, service, and partnership forged through years of shared sacrifice and dedication to peace.
