Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. welcomed Colonel Nhel Richard Patricio, the newly appointed commander of the 301st Infantry (Bayanihan) Brigade of the Philippine Army, during a courtesy visit today. He was joined by outgoing commander Brigadier General Michael Samson.
Colonel Patricio, an Ilonggo native and a distinguished member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Sambisig” Class of 1991, officially assumed command of the brigade last month in a turnover ceremony at Camp General Adriano Hernandez in Dingle, Iloilo.
During the visit, Brigadier General Samson expressed his gratitude to Governor Defensor and the Iloilo Provincial Government for their steadfast support of the brigade’s mission. In turn, Governor Defensor commended General Samson for his dedicated service and contributions to regional security and peace-building efforts.
The leadership transition highlights the Philippine Army’s ongoing commitment to strengthening territorial defense and maintaining peace across Panay and Guimaras Islands.
Governor Defensor reaffirmed the province’s strong collaboration with the military, emphasizing the brigade’s vital role in security, disaster response, and community development initiatives throughout Iloilo.
