21/05/2026
3rd Signal Battalion Achieves “TRAINED” Status, Reinforces C4S Readiness for Territorial Defense Operations
CAMP PERALTA, JAMINDAN, CAPIZ, 21 May 2026 – The 3rd Signal Battalion, Signal Regiment, Philippine Army, successfully completed the Battalion Evaluation and Certification Program (BECP) for Calendar Year 2026, earning a “TRAINED” rating — a strong validation of the unit’s enhanced operational capability, technical proficiency, and mission readiness in delivering responsive and resilient Command and Control Communications, and Cyber Systems (C4S) support. The achievement highlights the Battalion’s vital role in strengthening the Philippine Army’s operational readiness as it advances its transition from Internal Security Operations (ISO) to Territorial Defense Operations (TDO). It likewise affirms the unit’s capability to provide secure, reliable, and uninterrupted communications support essential to multi-domain operations in increasingly complex and contested operational environments.
The BECP subjected the Battalion to a comprehensive and mission-oriented evaluation conducted in three progressive phases designed to rigorously assess individual soldier skills, staff-level operational planning, and field-level ex*****on under realistic C4S operational scenarios involving communications degradation, cyber threats, electronic warfare simulations, and rapidly evolving command and control requirements. The evaluation commenced with the Shoot Capability Evaluation from 08 to 11 May 2026 at the 3rd Division Training School, where personnel underwent standardized rifle and pistol marksmanship assessments to validate combat readiness, weapons proficiency, and warfighting competencies.
This was followed by the Staff Exercise (STAFFEX) from 12 to 14 May 2026, facilitated by the Evaluation Team from Headquarters Philippine Army and the Training Command, Philippine Army, headed by COL PERCIVAL R ALCANAR GSC (SC) PA. During the exercise, the Battalion staff demonstrated operational competence in detailed Mission Analysis (DMA), Courses of Action (COA) development and analysis, Operational Order (OPORD) preparation, Troop Leading Procedures (TLP), and Rehearsal of Concept (ROC). The exercise further validated the Battalion’s capability to synchronize C4S operations, integrate command and control systems, and support commanders’ decision-making processes critical to territorial defense operational environments.
The culminating phase, the Field Training Exercise (FTX), was conducted from 15 to 17 May 2026 under the supervision of MAJ FREDDIE P DELA RAMA JR (SC) PA, Signal Regiment OCT/E Head for FTX. The exercise validated the Battalion’s capability to rapidly deploy, establish, operate, defend, and sustain critical C4S infrastructure and communications networks in austere and contested environments. Key operational elements, including the Mobile Command Center (MCC), Cybersecurity Incident Response Team (CIRT), Deployable Signal Team (DST), and Signal Mobile Maintenance and Repair Team (SMMART), successfully executed mission-essential tasks under simulated electronic warfare attacks, cyber intrusions, communications disruptions, and critical equipment failures while sustaining uninterrupted command and control communications support to maneuver and supported units.
The FTX further demonstrated the Battalion’s capability to maintain operational continuity and communications resilience amid degraded and denied environments, a critical requirement in modern territorial defense operations where cyber and electromagnetic threats increasingly challenge operational effectiveness. The exercise also tested the physical endurance, discipline, and cohesion of personnel through a demanding 5-kilometer rucksack march, reinforcing the mental and physical resilience required for sustained field operations.
The BECP formally concluded on 19 May 2026 with a comprehensive After Activity Review (AAR) led by LTC CATHERINE S GULLE II SC (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer of 3SBn, where operational insights, best practices, and capability gaps were identified to further enhance organizational effectiveness and operational preparedness. “BECP has demonstrated the Battalion’s capability to provide reliable, secure, and mission-essential C4S support in support of territorial defense operations,” said LTC GULLE. “Our personnel have proven their ability to operate and sustain critical communications networks under simulated cyber and electronic warfare threats, ensuring uninterrupted command and control for supported units anytime and anywhere.”
The attainment of a “TRAINED” certification marks a significant milestone for the 3rd Signal Battalion, reinforcing its readiness posture and operational relevance in support of the Philippine Army’s modernization thrust. More importantly, it highlights the Battalion’s indispensable role in enabling command and control superiority, communications resilience, cyber defense, and mission success in support to national defense and security operations.
