A change of command, a retirement ceremony, and a testimonial parade marked a change of command day for the Philippine Army's 3rd Infantry Division at Camp Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz on Thursday, November 12, 2026, as one brigade commander concluded a 39-year military career and another formally assumed leadership of the 301st Infantry Brigade.
Patricio Retires After Nearly Four Decades in Uniform
Outgoing 301st Infantry Brigade commander Brigadier General Nhel Richard E. Patricio was honored by the Spearhead Troopers during a formal ceremony at Camp Peralta. The 3rd Infantry Division said a plaque of honorable service was presented to him in recognition of his contributions to the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
According to the 3rd Infantry Division, Patricio's compulsory retirement takes effect on November 14, 2026, following 39 years, 7 months, and 13 days of active military service.
Career Came Full Circle With the 3ID
During his valedictory address, Patricio recalled that his military career began within the same division he is now leaving — specifically with the 3rd Infantry Division's 7th Infantry Battalion in Negros, where he served early on as a platoon leader and company commander. His final post, commander of the 301st Infantry Brigade under the same division, brought his career full circle.
Patricio expressed gratitude to his mentors, former commanders, and fellow members of the Philippine Military Academy "Sambisig" Class of 1991, crediting them with shaping his leadership across nearly four decades of service.
Daanton Steps In as Acting Brigade Commander
Major General Joey A. Escanillas, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, presided over the change of command ceremony that designated Colonel Leroy S. Daanton as the acting commander of the 301st Infantry Brigade, the 3ID announced.
Daanton, a native Ilonggo and member of the PMA "Maalab" Class of 1993, comes to the post with considerable familiarity with the formation. He previously served as deputy brigade commander of both the 301st and 302nd Infantry Brigades, and held key positions within 3ID line units before his designation.
Daanton Thanks Senior AFP Officials Upon Assumption
In his assumption message, Daanton expressed thanks to AFP Chief of Staff General Antonio G. Nafarrete and Philippine Army Commanding General Lieutenant General Donald M. Gumiran for their confidence in his appointment. He also acknowledged former commanders who guided him throughout his career, including those who previously led the 3ID.
Escanillas Calls on Brigade to Support New Commander
Escanillas, as presiding officer, addressed both the outgoing and incoming commanders. He thanked Patricio for his contributions to the brigade's peace campaign in Panay and congratulated Daanton — a classmate — on the new designation.
"I expect you to draw from these experiences, sustain the gains of your predecessors, and lead the Bayanihan Troopers with competence, integrity, and resolve," Escanillas said, according to the 3rd Infantry Division.
Escanillas further called on the brigade's officers and enlisted personnel to give their incoming commander the same level of loyalty, professionalism, and dedication they have consistently demonstrated.
Source: 3rd Infantry Division, Philippine Army