CAMP GOV. ANTONIO SISON, LINGAYEN, Pangasinan — Brigadier General Ronald M. Bautista officially assumed command of the 702nd Infantry (Defender) Brigade of the Philippine Army on Friday.

The change of command ceremony marked the formal turnover of leadership from Colonel George M. Bergonia, outgoing acting commander, to Bautista. The event was presided over by Major General Joseph Norwin D. Pasamonte, commander of the 7th Infantry Division.

Colonel Arbel C. Mercullo, officer in charge of the Pangasinan Police Provincial Office, also attended the ceremony, held on 31 October 2025 at the 1RCDG Function Hall, Camp Lt. Tito B. Abat, Manaoag, Pangasinan.

Other attendees included Brigadier General Rogelio “Pojie” Peñones, Central Luzon PNP director; Brigadier General Dindo Reyes, Region 1 police director; and other senior police and Army officials.

The 702nd Infantry Brigade is responsible for maintaining peace and security in Pangasinan, La Union, Ilocos Sur, Mountain Province, Benguet, Ifugao, and parts of Abra.

The program included the presentation of awards, the reading and signing of relief and designation orders, turnover of the unit symbol, and presentation of mementos.

The event concluded with the singing of “Awit Kawal” and “Pilipinas Kong Mahal,” followed by a photo opportunity and fellowship lunch.

The Pangasinan PNP said Mercullo’s attendance underscored the continuing partnership between the Philippine Army and the Philippine National Police in maintaining peace and order in Pangasinan and other provinces within Region 1.