Cagayan de Oro City - The Philippine Army and the Australian Defence Force officially concluded the “Kasangga 2025” Army-to-Army military exercise on Tuesday at Montalvan Hall, headquarters of the 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division, Camp Edilberto Evangelista in this city.

A total of 230 personnel — 140 from the Philippine Army’s 504th Combat Engineer Battalion under the Combat Engineer Regiment, along with selected troops from the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division and 10th Infantry (Agila) Division — trained alongside 90 Australian soldiers in the month-long bilateral exercise. The engagement aimed to enhance interoperability, build mutual trust, and strengthen defense ties between the two nations.

During the closing ceremony, Lieutenant General Luis Rex Bergante, Commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command, commended the commitment and professionalism shown by both forces.

“May the lessons learned, the camaraderie formed, and the confidence built in each other carry forward in all that you do. Let us nurture this alliance, institutionalize our gains, and work tirelessly to contribute in upholding the peace and stability of our region. May you continue to be resolute in our drive to improve and be better every day or as I always say, let’s beat yesterday," Bergante said.

Major General Mark Ascough from the Office of the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Australian Defence Force, was among the guests. He expressed appreciation for the warm partnership and shared dedication of both countries in promoting peace and security.

The event also featured the awarding of plaques and recognition to distinguished participants, honoring their contributions to the exercise’s success. A symbolic pinning and exchange of national patches marked the spirit of mutual respect and partnership.

Echoing this sentiment, Major General Michele Anayron Jr., Commander of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, congratulated the participating troops.

“This exercise stands as a testament to the friendship and mutual respect that goes beyond the boundaries of Camp Kibaritan. As we close this chapter of the Philippine–Australian Army-to-Army exercise, let us carry the valuable lessons from this joint endeavor. We emerge from this training not only more capable, but also more resilient, and better prepared to safeguard the peace and stability of our Area of Responsibility and our nation as a whole,” Anayron said.

Anayron added that the successful conclusion of Exercise Kasangga 2025-1 marks another milestone in the enduring defense partnership between the Philippines and Australia, reaffirming both nations’ shared commitment to regional peace, stability, and readiness.