Artillery Regiment Activates its 1st Ground-Launched Missile Battalion (P)

24 Oktober 2025

The Army Artillery Regiment which is tasked to administratively handle upcoming rocket artillery, Air Defense, Anti-Ship and Surface to Surface missile systems (photo: PA)

The Artillery Regiment, Philippine Army, marked a significant milestone in its modernization efforts with the activation of the 1st Ground-Launched Missile Battalion (P) on October 21, 2025 at Headquarters Artillery Regiment, Fort Magsaysay, Palayan City, Nueva Ecija with Brigadier General Marion T. Angcao PA, the Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations, G3, PA, as the Guest of Honor and Speaker.

The activation of the 1st Ground-Launched Missile Battalion (P) marks a historic step for the Philippine Army, being its first dedicated unit to operate a ground-launched missile system. This milestone underscores the Army’s commitment to enhancing its long-range precision strike capability and strengthening the country’s territorial defense posture.

During the ceremony, BGen. Angcao led the ceremonial unfurling of the unit color, symbolizing the official birth of the battalion. The event also highlighted the values of commitment, honor, and loyalty that its officers and personnel must embody as they take on their vital role in safeguarding the nation.

Colonel Michael Yves Rayman GSC (ART) PA officially assumed command as the Battalion Commander. In his message, Col. Rayman expressed deep gratitude for the trust and confidence placed in him and vowed to ensure the unit’s operational readiness and proficiency in managing the new missile system. He emphasized the importance of rigorous training and the seamless integration of this new capability into the Army’s overall combat doctrine.

In his keynote address, BGen. Angcao congratulated the Artillery Regiment for this historic accomplishment. He stressed that the activation significantly enhances the Army’s ability to deter threats and defend national sovereignty. He also reminded the troops that such an advanced capability comes with great responsibility, urging them to master the technology, uphold professionalism, and employ the system with precision and discipline.

Following the ceremony, BGen. Marion T. Angcao PA, together with BGen. Hubert S. Acierto PA, Commander, Artillery Regiment, witnessed the capability demonstration of the Light Deployable Battery Communication System (LDBCS), showcasing the Artillery’s ongoing efforts to modernize its communication and command systems, ensuring secure, reliable, and efficient coordination across artillery units in support of modern battlefield operations.

(Philippine Army)