8ID celebrates its 27th Founding Anniversary

By DPAO, 8ID PA
August 7, 2015

CAMP VICENTE LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division, Philippine Army marked its 27th Founding Anniversary with the theme “8ID at Sambayanan, Dalawampu’t PitongTaong Nagkakaisa Tungo sa Kapayapaan at Kaunlaran” at Headquarters in Camp Lukban, Brgy Maulong, Catbalogan City, Samar on August 4, 2015.

The event was highlighted by a wreath-laying ceremony led by Most Rev. Leopoldo S. Tumulak D.D, Bishop, Military Ordinariate of the Philippines and Major General Jet B. Velarmino, Commander 8ID, for the Stormtroopers who passed away for the past year. The wreath-laying was in honor and recognition of the soldiers’ heroism and ultimate sacrifice for in pursuit of peace in Region VIII. The ceremony was attended and witnessed by the soldiers’ love ones, as well as officers, soldiers and civilian employees of the Command.

Another highlight was the recognition of officers and soldiers who made significant contribution to the accomplishments of their assigned tasks in combat operations and in administration that significantly contributed to the overall success of the Command’s mission. In addition, civilian stakeholders who worked with the Command were also given due recognition during the event.

Later in the evening, the celebration was capped by the “Stormtroopers’ Cultural Night”, an activity that showcased the rich culture of Filipinos through a cultural dance competition which was participated by different units of the Command.

Gracing the 27th Founding Anniversary of 8ID was the presence of Bishop Tumulak, Bishop of Military Diocese as the Guest of Honor and Speaker; Major General Jet B. Velarmino, Commander 8ID; Hon. Stephanie Uy-Tan, Mayor of Catbalogan City; Christine C. Caidic, 8ID MSAB Chairperson; Brigadier General Herminigildo C. Aquino, 803rd Brigade Commander; Brigadier General Leoncio A. Cirunay, Commander 801st Infantry Brigade, Col Dinoh A. Dolina, Commander 802nd Infantry Brigade and media personalities.

Looking ahead to the challenges that 8ID hurdled for the past year, Major General Velarmino said that the Command has accomplished much in performing its mandated task of protecting the people because of the unity and dedication of the troops in performing their duties. In his remarks, he challenged his officers and men and said that as long as we have faith to accomplish our just cause, coupled with unconquerable will to win, victory will not be denied us of any undertaking we have at hand and in the future.