“Becoming a Son of Kalinga carries responsibility”: Maj. Gen. Señires vows continued commitment to the province even after retirement

TABUK CITY, Kalinga – Major General Gulliver L. Señires, commander of the Philippine Army’s 5th Infantry (STAR) Division, has vowed to remain committed to Kalinga’s peace, development and cultural heritage even beyond his military service, saying his adoption into the province carries a responsibility to uphold the trust of its people.

Señires made the commitment during the inter-agency flag-raising ceremony at the Kalinga Sports Center in Capitol Hills, Bulanao, on November 9, following his formal adoption as a Son of Kalinga through Provincial Resolution No. 2026-458.

The resolution, adopted by the 11th Sangguniang Panlalawigan on October 6, recognized his military service and contributions to peace, security and unity in the province. It also bestowed upon him the traditional Kalinga name “Sapao,” meaning a respected chieftain of

Bituwon (Star) Village, associated with strength, wisdom, courage and compassion.

“I have received many honors throughout my military career, but today's occasion holds a special place in my heart. To be ceremonially adopted as a Son of Kalinga is more than a recognition of service. It is an expression of friendship, trust, and acceptance by a people who have become an important part of my life,” he said.

Señires recalled his first military assignment in Kalinga in 1992, when he experienced some of the most difficult moments of his early career, including being wounded in Barangay Ballayangon, Pinukpuk, on July 28, 1992.

Despite the challenges, he said his years in the province allowed him to appreciate the resilience, generosity and rich cultural heritage of the Kalinga people, particularly their respect for elders, family and community, as well as the Bodong peace pact tradition.

He stressed that becoming part of the Kalinga community goes beyond receiving a traditional name or ceremonial recognition, as it entails respecting the people's customs and remaining worthy of their trust.

“I recognize that becoming a Son of Kalinga is not merely receiving a title. It carries the responsibility to respect your traditions, uphold the trust you have extended, and remain committed to the welfare of your people…I accept this honor not as a reward for what I have done, but as a responsibility to remain worthy of your friendship and trust. I will remain a friend and advocate of its peace, development, cultural heritage, and the aspirations of its people,” he added.

The Provincial Government, led by Governor James S. Edduba and Vice Governor Dave Q. Odiem, said the adoption affirms Señires’ acceptance as one with the iKalingas and recognizes his renewed commitment to the province. The recognition also places him within the protection and obligations of the Bodong customary system.

Through the adoption, Kalinga has extended its identity and community ties to Señires beyond his military assignments. His pledge, meanwhile, underscores that the bond carries obligations beyond his years in uniform: to respect the province’s traditions, uphold the trust of its people and continue supporting their aspirations.