TARLAC CITY (PIA) -- The Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) unveiled its newly-constructed facilities inside Camp O’Donnell in Capas, Tarlac.

Philippine Army Commanding General Lieutenant General Roy Galido led the unveiling of new facilities completed under the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program in partnership with Bases Conversion and Development Authority. 

Sandoval Building is a four-storey building which can accommodate more than 90 officers, while Pacquit Hall is a three-storey building designed to house classrooms and offices.  

TRADOC Commander Major General Luis Rex Bergante explained that the facilities aim to empower the training institution in educating, developing, and molding future Army officers. 

“Hopefully, these facilities would create a conducive environment for training. We know that a conducive environment has a great impact in learning,” Bergante emphasized. 

He cited that additional barracks, classrooms, mess halls and bleachers are underway to accommodate thousands of candidate soldiers from all over the country in line with the One Training Factory Concept (OTFC). 

The implementation of OTFC employs centralized training inside Camp O’Donnell for all candidate soldiers nationwide.  

Bergante noted that this initiative ensures that TRADOC is living up to its name as the pioneer and source of the Army standards. “Our mindset is to do our best to contribute in keeping the institution at par with the standards of the Army,” he added. 

Pacquit Hall was named after Private First Class Ian Pacquit, the youngest recipient of the Medal of Valor. He showed bravery resulting in his early demise during the 2013 Zamboanga City incident. 

Sandoval Building, on the other hand, was named after Captain Rommel Sandoval.

He was a recipient of the Medal of Valor, who paid the ultimate sacrifice while rescuing one of his wounded men during the 2017 Marawi Crisis.  (CLJD/TJBM-PIA 3)