19IB inaugurates camp facilities and launch the 1st commando summer shoot fest

By DPAO, 8ID PA
May 13, 2015

CAMP VICENTE LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 19th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army based in Kananga, Leyte inaugurated its new camp facilities last May 10, 2015.

It can be recalled that the Headquarters 19IB was totally destroyed when typhoon Yolanda struck Eastern Visayas on November 8, 2013. The Commando Battalion troopers were visibly on high morale and proud as members of the unit during the inauguration because after more than a year, they now have a decent barracks to stay and rest.

The inauguration was graced by Maj. Gen. Jet B Velarmino AFP, Commander, 8ID together with his wife, Mrs. Imelda D. Velarmino. Also present during the occasion was Hon. Elmer C. Codilla, Mayor of Kananga, Leyte; Col Dinoh A. Dolina, Commander, 802nd Brigade; media personalities; YMCA Rifle and Pistol Club (YRPC) members led by Mr. Marlon Alajas; and other invited guests from Ormoc City and Kananga.

Captain Rey David G. Loyola, 8ID Chaplain officiated the blessings of the newly repaired camp facilities: Admin Building 1 and 2, Officers Quarters, and Supply Room, Bangon Transient Facility, Bangon Organic Livestock Facility, Headquarters Service Company building, and the unit Cooperative Store.

After the inauguration, Lt. Col. Nedy C. Espulgar, Commanding Officer of the 19th Infantry Battalion held a press conference where he presented to the media the five high-powered firearms recovered from the New People’s Army (NPA) during an encounter at Brgy Liberty, Ormoc City last May 3, 2015.

Immediately after the press conference, the 1st Commando Summer Shoot Fest was conducted, which was participated by Maj. Gen. Velarmino and 114 other gun enthusiasts.