01/10/2026
ITG, ETC, PA Holds Change of Sergeant Major Ceremony
LEADERSHIP CONTINUES, STANDARDS REMAIN.
CAMP O’DONNELL, Capas, Tarlac — The Individual Training Group (ITG), Education and Training Command, Philippine Army (ETC, PA) formally conducted its Change of Sergeant Major Ceremony at the ITG Headquarters, Multipurpose Room, Paquit Hall, on 30 September 2026.
The ceremony marked the outgoing Sergeant Major, SMS Ariel F Cobardo (CE) PA, relinquishing responsibility and the incoming Sergeant Major, MSg Lowie C Siborboro (AGS) PA, assuming responsibility. The occasion underscored the continuity of enlisted leadership and the organization’s enduring commitment to discipline, professionalism, and personnel development.
The ceremony was presided over by COL NORMAN E VALDEZ INF (MNSA) PA, Group Commander, ITG, ETC, PA, who recognized the outgoing Sergeant Major's significant contributions and expressed appreciation for his dedicated service and leadership in upholding high standards of discipline, morale, welfare, and professional development among the Group's enlisted personnel.
In his message, COL VALDEZ emphasized the Sergeant Major’s vital role in advising command on enlisted personnel matters, reinforcing discipline and standards, strengthening unit cohesion, and serving as a key link between command and the enlisted ranks. He further underscored the importance of professionalism, teamwork, and commitment to duty in support of the ITG’s mission to educate and train individual Army personnel and to enhance the Army’s warfighting capabilities as part of the Combined Arms Force.
The Change of Sergeant Major Ceremony reflects the Philippine Army’s enduring traditions of professionalism, leadership continuity, and commitment to excellence. More importantly, it reinforces the vital role of strong enlisted leadership in fostering discipline, developing personnel, and ensuring the effective accomplishment of the organization’s mission.
One leadership transition. One continuing commitment. One mission - TRAIN TO WIN.