Gov. Edduba honors retiring 5ID chief for service to province; Señires given the name “Sapao”- Chieftain of Bituwon Village

TABUK CITY, Kalinga – Governor James S. Edduba recognized Major General Gulliver L. Señires for his years of military service in Kalinga, welcoming him as an adopted Son of the province whose ties with its people will remain even after his retirement from active military service.

Señires, commanding general of the Philippine Army’s 5th Infantry Division (5ID), was formally adopted by the Provincial Government of Kalinga and given the traditional name “Sapao” during a tribal membership conferment ceremony on November 9, 2026, at the Kalinga Sports Center in Bulanao, Tabuk City.

His connection with Kalinga dates back to his military assignments in the province. He served with the 48th Infantry (Guardians) Battalion from 1992 to 1998 and later commanded the 50th Infantry (Defender) Battalion from 2015 to 2017. His years of service brought him into close contact with local communities and the province’s peace and security concerns.

Edduba said the adoption recognizes not only Señires’ distinguished military career but also the lasting relationship he has built with the people of Kalinga.

“You may be retiring from active military service, but you will always have a home in Kalinga and a family among its people. Your uniform may be set aside, but you will forever carry the honor of being one of our own,” Edduba said.

“Today it is more than a celebration of your distinguished military career. It is also a celebration of a lasting bond you have built with the people of Kalinga. As you enter your retirement, we wish to honor you in a special way by welcoming you as an adopted Son of Kalinga,” he added.

The governor stressed that the conferment was not merely a title or ceremonial gesture but an expression of the province’s gratitude and appreciation for the general’s service and contributions.

“This is more than a title or a ceremonial gesture. It is our expression of genuine gratitude, respect, and appreciation for your service and contributions to our province. It is our way of saying that your connection with Kalinga goes beyond your military assignment and will endure long after your retirement,” Edduba said.

The traditional name “Sapao” refers to a respected chieftain of Bituwon (Star) Village and embodies strength, wisdom, courage, and compassion. In Kalinga oral tradition, the name represents a protector and leader who safeguards his people and upholds the welfare of the community.

It also carries historical significance, having been borne by Lt. Governor Franklin Walter “Sapao” Hale, the first lieutenant governor of the Sub-Province of Kalinga in 1907.

Through the conferment, the provincial government formally welcomed Señires into the Kalinga cultural community, affirming that his bond with the iKalinga people will continue beyond his years in uniform.