AFP-SOLCOM gains strategic land asset in Quezon via major private- sector donation
The Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Southern Luzon Command (AFP- SOLCOM) recently expanded its base of operations with the donation of a significant tract of land in Quezon Province.
The 100-hectare land asset’s handover was formalized in a Deed of Transfer ceremony between AFP-SOLCOM led by Lt. Gen. Facundo Palafox IV and the province’s Reyes clan represented by philanthropist and shipping magnate Merian Reyes. The latter’s family, who owns Villa Reyes in the municipality of San Narciso, Quezon, has designated the land as a future site for the SOLCOM’s strategic base expansion in Southern Luzon.
The donated property is expected to significantly enhance the AFP’s regional capacity for operational readiness, territorial defense and humanitarian response.
AFP-SOLCOM commander Lt. Gen. Palafox, on behalf of its entire military personnel, expressed his deep gratitude to Reyes and her family, as he noted that the land donation represents not only a contribution to military infrastructure, but also a demonstration of patriotism and shared responsibility in securing the nation. According to Reyes, the donation was intended not only to serve as a physical foundation for the expansion of military infrastructure, but also as a gesture of trust and collaboration between private citizens and the Armed Forces. She emphasized that similar acts of support arise from a collective responsibility to help protect and uplift the nation, with hopes that her family’s contribution encourages greater unity between communities and institutions working toward the country’s peace and progress.
A civic-minded industrialist who heads the nationwide shipping enterprise Starhorse Shipping Lines Inc., Reyes believes in the importance of public-private partnerships in nation-building. Known for her deep commitment to
community development, she explained that the donation reflects the Reyeses’ desire to contribute to national stability and peace.
“This land is our family’s humble contribution to strengthening our nation’s defenses,” said Reyes. “We see it as both a foundation for future development and a symbol of the unity between civilians and our Armed Forces.”
Both parties emphasized that the property’s donation benefits not only the AFP but contributes to the security and prosperity of the broader Filipino public. Military officials also hinted at the potential for further development
in the area—including a possible airstrip and docking facility that could serve both civilian and defense needs. Residents of San Narciso and invited guests applauded the landmark gesture, recognizing the move as a potential catalyst for progress in their region, and a testament to AFP-SOLCOM’s continued strengthening of its capabilities in response to evolving regional and global security dynamics.
