ZAMBOANGA CITY — Armed Forces of the Philippines-Western Mindanao Command chief Maj. Gen. Steve Crespillo announced that it has formally activated "Joint Task Force Orion" and deactivated Joint Task Force Sulu and Joint Task Force Basilan.

Crespillo presided over the formal activation ceremony of the Joint Task Force "Orion" and named Maj. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio — leader of the 11th Infantry Division and former commander of JTF-Sulu — as its first commander.

101st Infantry (Three Red Arrows) Brigade commander and the former commander of the deactivated JTF-Basilan Brig. Gen. Alvin Luzon attended the ceremony and welcomed the operational adjustment in AFP-WMC as it enhances the security Campaign in the Basilan-Sulu area.

Luzon also looks forward to working and operating as part of the JTF "Orion" Team.

JTF Sulu and JTF Basilan have played pivotal roles in ensuring peace and security in Sulu and Basilan provinces, respectively.

According to Crespillo, the deactivation marks a transition towards a more streamlined and efficient approach to security operations under the newly established JTF "Orion."

"With its activation, JTF 'Orion' will continue to work closely with local government units, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to address the emerging security challenges, foster development, and sustain the promotion of peace in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao region," said Crespillo.

Patrimonio, on the other hand, lauded the immeasurable contributions of the personnel of JTF-Sulu and Basilan in protecting the people and state, bringing peace and stability and upholding the values of freedom and justice.