Armor Division reactivates mechanized infantry for BARMM polls

The Armor (Pambato) Division of the Philippine Army reactivated the Division Mechanized Infantry Company (DMIC)-Dismounted, as well as the sending off of Tank Platoons and a Security Platoon to support the election-security mission for the historic first Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliamentary Elections on 14 September 2026.

The send off ceremony and reactivation of DMIC were conducted at the Pambato Clubhouse at Camp O'Donnell, Barangay Santa Lucia in Capas, Tarlac on 8 September 2026.

According to the PA, the deployment of forces underscores the Armor Division’s distinct role as the army’s decisive arm, capable of delivering overwhelming firepower, rapid maneuver, and unyielding force protection in support of national objectives.

Tank Platoons serve as visible deterrence and rapid-response capability; the Security Platoon fortifies ground stability; and the DMIC expands operational reach, strengthening forces in Mindanao to ensure absolute readiness and flexibility throughout election duty.

In his remarks, Major General Manalo emphasized the solemnity of the mission:

"This mission goes beyond securing polling places — it is about safeguarding democracy, protecting the people’s voice, and ensuring peace prevails at this defining moment in our nation’s history."

He furthered that the DMIC reaffirms the Division’s commitment to modernization and readiness, serving as an agile force multiplier ready to respond decisively to emerging challenges. He emphasized that the mission tests the Division’s core principles of Respect, Relevance, and Mettle (RRM), and expressed full confidence that troops would carry out their duties with honor, resilience, and unity — upholding the Philippine Army’s STRONG principles of Stewardship, Transformation, Readiness, Organizational Development, Nation-Building, and God-Centered Leadership.

The Armor Division stands ready to fulfill its mandate, affirming the Army’s enduring commitment to defending democracy, preserving peace, and safeguarding the aspirations of the Filipino people.