Wounded rebel rescued by 8ID troops

By DPAO, 8ID PA
June 1, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – A Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) was recently rescued by the troops of 63rd Infantry Battalion, 8th Infantry Division after being wounded in an armed encounter in the hinterlands of Sitio Bagti, Brgy. Mabini, Basey, Samar on May 30, 2024.

The CNT was identified as Melchor Fabula alias Allan/Rico, 41 years old and a member of Bugsok Platoon, Sub-Regional Committee Sesame, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee.

Alias Allan was abandoned by his comrades after sustaining gunshot wounds in a 40-minute firefight with the government troops.

During the clearing operations, the troops discovered the wounded CNT and a killed CNT identified as Doming Pajares alias Bager.

The troops immediately applied first aid treatment to alias Allan and brought him to Camp Lukban Station Hospital for immediate medical treatment while alias Bager was also brought to a funeral home.

Alias Allan is set to undergo surgical operation after sustaining heavy wounds on his right arm.

The 8th Infantry Division Commander, Major General Camilo Z. Ligayo also expressed his sympathy to the family and friends of the killed CNT.

Meanwhile, Maj.Gen. Ligayo lauded the troops of 63IB for upholding basic human rights.

“Let us continue to adhere to our principles of upholding basic human rights and adhering to the International Humanitarian Law. Let us continue to be humane even to our enemies. May this also serve as a wake up call to those who are still in the armed struggle. No matter how loyal you are to the CPP-NPA organization, when you are on the verge of dying and need help, they will turn their back against you and will abandon you,” Maj.Gen. Ligayo emphasized.

He also encouraged the remaining remnants of the CNTs to lay down their arms and be back to the folds of the law.

“To the remaining CNTs, choose the peaceful path, give peace a chance. Let us be united and do not hinder the socio-economic progress of the barangays, especially in the Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas who are in dire need of a peaceful community,” Maj.Gen. Ligayo expressed.

Las Navas MTF-ELCAC Chair reaffirms commitment to help end insurgency in Northern Samar

By DPAO, 8ID PA
May 31, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The Las Navas Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) met on May 29, 2024 to discuss peace efforts anchored in the programs under Executive Order No. 70 or the Whole-of-Nation Approach with the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other peace partner agencies held in Las Navas, Northern Samar.

The said meeting aims to boost the plans and strategies in eradicating the remaining Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) and intensify the different government interventions or programs especially in addressing the root causes of insurgency.

In the said meeting, Las Navas MTF-ELCAC Chair, Mayor Arlito Tan expressed his commitment and support to the campaigns and programs of the government in putting an end to the decades-long insurgency problem.

Mayor Tan also encouraged other elected local government officials especially in the barangay level to actively persuade the remaining members of the CTGs in their respective barangays to surrender and return to the folds of the law.

“Ang Armed Forces of the Philippines ay nagsasakripisyo sa atin na tayo ay maging mapayapa at progresibo ang ating pamumuhay maging ang ating paghahanap-buhay. Ang magagawa natin, ay payuhan natin ang mga natitirang NPA sa ating barangay na magbalik-loob para maging peaceful na ang Las Navas,” Mayor Tan stressed.

During the meeting, the 803rd Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Efren Morados also emphasized the vital role of local government officials in ending local communist armed conflict.

“We are encouraging our barangay officials to help us explain to your constituents the programs of the Philippine Army. Your assistance is crucial in ending the recruitment and other violent activities of the communist terrorist group," Brig. Gen. Morados stated.

Meanwhile, the Commander of the 8th Infantry Division, Major General Camilo Z. Ligayo assured that the Armed Forces of the Philippines will ensure the safety of those who will surrender.

“Rest assured that the Armed Forces of the Philippines will ensure their safety and help them receive the necessary assistances from the government as they start their life anew,” Maj.Gen. Ligayo said.

NMP to unlock findings of study on distance learning investments by Philippine Maritime Institutions

Press Release
May 31, 2024

TACLOBAN CITY – The National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) is excited to announce the forthcoming presentation of its latest research study, "Investments on Distance Learning by Philippine Maritime Institutions," during the NMP Maritime Research Forum on June 20, 2024, at the Ocean and Fountain Park Philippines Inc. (Hotel H2O, Manila Ocean Park).

This study delves into the significant investments made by Maritime Training Institutions (MTIs) in distance learning, exploring its benefits and addressing the challenges faced during implementation. Distance learning has proven to be a transformative approach, increasing access to training, reducing costs, improving the quality of learning, and responding to market demands.

Despite the issuance of the general guidelines by the Philippine maritime administration, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) as early as 2016 on the offering of distance learning for the mandatory training in compliance with the International Convention on STCW 1978 as amended, the maritime training institutions (MTIs) had not fully embraced online platforms until the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a rapid shift. This experience highlighted the potential of distance learning, especially in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, where digitalization and automation are accelerating changes within the maritime industry.

Digital technologies and platforms are now integral to enhancing operational efficiency, increasing competitiveness, and steering the maritime industry towards decarbonization with the goal of zero emissions by mid-century. The influence of digitalization on Maritime Education and Training (MET) is profound, shaping the future of training methods and content delivery. The objectives of this study are to determine the extent of investments made by MTIs in distance learning, identify the issues and concerns they face, and propose solutions for effective implementation. This comprehensive analysis aims to provide valuable insights for stakeholders in the maritime industry.

NMP invites all maritime industry stakeholders to join the Maritime Research Forum to gain an in-depth understanding of these findings and participate in discussions on enhancing distance learning in maritime education. This forum offers a unique platform to explore strategies that will shape the future of maritime training in the digital age.

1 NPA rebel killed, 1 captured in Basey clash

By 802nd Infantry Brigade, 8ID PA
May 31, 2024

CAMP JORGE DOWNES, Ormoc City – One communist-terrorist New People's Army (NPA) rebel was killed, while another was captured following an encounter with government forces in the hinterlands of Basey, Samar on May 30, Thursday.

Responding to the report of the civilian populace of an armed group conducting extortions in Sitio Bagti, Brgy Mabini, Basey, Samar, troops of the 63rd Infantry (Innovator) Battalion (63IB) under the operational control of 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade, 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division, Philippine Army clashed with more or less ten (10) terrorist NPAs of Bugsok Platoon, Sub-regional Committee- SESAME (SRC-SESAME) of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC).

Local Army Commander Lieutenant Colonel Eduardo Meclat said that the firefight ensued for about forty minutes forcing the terrorists to withdraw in different directions and leaving behind the dead body of their comrade, Domeng Pajares alias Bager.

Meclat added that the troops, while conducting a clearing and follow-on operation at the clash site, also captured a wounded NPA member, who his comrades abandoned. Melchor Fabula, the wounded NPA, was immediately given proper medical attention and care by the troops.

“We will prioritize the medical needs of the wounded NPA. The troops are giving him first aid medical treatment, and we will send him to the nearest hospital for proper medical attention,” Meclat, Battalion Commander of 63IB, said.

Recovered from the site were one M-16 Armalite rifle, two grenade launchers, three International Humanitarian Law (IHL)-banned anti-personnel mines, and numerous war materiel left behind by the fleeing rebels.

Meanwhile, the remains of Pajares will be turned over to his family once the proper procedure of processing the dead body is finished. “Although we do not take pleasure in the death of Domeng Pajares, still we will extend the necessary assistance to the bereaved family for his proper and decent burial,” Meclat added.

“This incident so saddens us, but, we cannot compromise the security of the peace-loving constituents in our area of responsibility,” Meclat ended.

Brigadier General Noel A. Vestuir, Commander, 802nd Infantry Brigade commended the troops of 63IB for their quick response to the reports of the civilians of the extortion activities of the terrorists while also extending his condolences to the family left behind by the dead NPA.

“Once again, our troops have displayed their dedication and professionalism to their sworn duty of protecting the people from this group and at the same time their compassion towards a fallen NPA combatant. I lauded the community as well for standing up against the terroristic activities of this group,” Vestuir said.

“I reiterate my call to the remaining NPAs in Samar and Leyte Islands to peacefully abandon the armed struggle. The communities no longer support and welcome you. Do not wait to experience the same fate as what happened to your comrade today. The path of peace is ready to embrace you together with your families and loved ones,” Vestuir ended.

CARD MBA expands reach with opening of 93rd PO in Lucban, Quezon

By MARYROSE JAVIER
May 30, 2024

SAN PABLO CITY – The CARD Mutual Benefit Association, Inc. (CARD MBA), the insurance arm of CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI), inaugurated its 93rd Provincial Office (PO) in Lucban, Quezon on May 6, 2024.

Established in 1999, CARD MBA is dedicated to providing benefits to its members in times of uncertainty, including death, through various microinsurance products tailored to offer protection and support.

"Our continued expansion in different regions in the country underscores our dedication to serving our members in need. We ensure the most vulnerable segments in our society have access to our services particularly during challenging times," said CARD MBA CEO Jocelyn Dequito.

Dequito emphasized that these achievements reflect not only the success of CARD MBA but also the broader success of CARD MRI in line with its mission to provide support to communities and spread positive impact.

CARD MBA offers a wide range of financial products tailored to the needs of its members, including Basic Life Insurance, Retirement Fund, Loan Redemption Fund Plus, Golden Life Insurance, Family Security Plan, Acci Plan, and Remitter Protek Plan, each with varying payment options and maximum benefits, helping families to be financially prepared in times of uncertainty.

In addition, CARD MBA actively engages in community development initiatives organized by CARD MRI, such as the Kaunlaran Caravan, facilitating events like mass weddings and the CARD MRI Disaster Relief Assistance Program.

The newly opened Quezon 5 PO, located at A. Bonifacio St., Corner J. Rizal Avenue, Barangay Poblacion 2, Lucban, Quezon will serve a total of 73,569 members from CARD, Inc. (A Microfinance NGO) and CARD Bank, Inc.

This inauguration emphasizes CARD MBA's steadfast commitment to broadening its outreach and ensuring financial security for Filipinos nationwide. This expansion enhances access to vital insurance services and strengthens the organization's ability to promote resilience and prosperity within communities across the Philippines.

Amidst global turmoil, citizens unite for peace:

HWPL holds 11th Annual Peace Walk in 50 countries

Press Release
May 27, 2024

MANILA – As conflicts erupt worldwide threatening global security and coexistence, hope of peace emerges from citizens. In May 2024, citizens across all continents join hands for HWPL’s 11th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace and Peace Walk, organized by a UN-affiliated NGO, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL). Themed "Communication for Global Citizenship of Reconciliation and Tolerance,” this commemoration aims to cultivate and share a global culture of peace.

In about 50 countries, the Peace Walk will be complemented by diverse peace-building activities including peace-themed performances, video screenings, photo exhibitions, poster drawings, sports activities, bazaars, and volunteer opportunities. Tree planting ceremonies and "free hugs" initiatives further emphasize the spirit of unity and environmental well-being.

In the Philippines, a Peace Competition Activity was held on May 3 at Victorious Christian Montessori in GMA, Cavite. Elementary and high school students participated in different categories such as essay writing, poster making and coloring/drawing with peace as a theme.

Peace Walks were also held in Hinigaran, Negros Occidental during the Hinugyaw Festival on April 29 and in Lucban, Quezon as part of the most-awaited Pahiyas Festival and Parade on May 15. HWPL volunteers in Lucban together with the barangay officials teamed-up in cleaning the Pahiyas festival decorations at the plaza on May 16 and 18.

Neil Palermo, Coordinator of HWPL youth wing, the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG), encouraged the youth, “Kami (IPYG) po ay nagjo-join sa Peace Walk every year dito sa Pahiyas ng Lucban. Para po sa progressive and peaceful na bayan ng Lucban, ine-encourage ko po lahat ng kabataan na magjoin po sa IPYG kung saan ang kabataan po ay magkakaroon po ng activities tulad ng clean-up drive. Sa gano’ng paraan... tayo po ay maging good example sa mga kabataan.”

(We join the Peace Walk every year here during the Pahiyas [Festival] of Lucban. For the progressive and peaceful community of Lucban, I encourage every youth to join IPYG, where the youth participate in different activities, like clean-up drives. In this way, we can be a good example to the other young people here in Lucban.)

The flagship event will commence on May 25th at the Peace Gate of Seoul Olympic Park, Republic of Korea. This annual event commemorates the 2013 proclamation of the Declaration of World Peace at the Peace Gate with 30,000 global youth advocating peace. This declaration outlines the roles of individuals from all walks of life in achieving peace and urges a united global effort.

During last year’s commemoration, HWPL Chairman Lee Man-hee said, "Since we pledged to work together for world peace 10 years ago, we have been calling for peace all over the world. We have advocated that peace should be taught at home and at school, and that everyone should become messengers of peace." He also emphasized, "Everyone should be one under the title of peace and work together to create a good world and make it a legacy for future generations. This is what we need to do in this era in which we live."

HWPL recently issued a statement on the Israel-Iran conflict and highlighted the devastating impact on civilians. "Organizations worldwide, in alliance with HWPL as peace solidarity, urge Iran and Israel to put a stop to the acts of aggression immediately and to come forward for conversations to usher in peace,” the statement said.

Second phase of access road leading to Sulpan Cave completed

By GISSELLE G. PARUNGAO
May 23, 2024

CALBAYOG CITY – Second phase in the construction of access road leading to Sulpan Cave is recently completed, said OIC-DE Raulito Yangzon.

An additional Portland Concrete Cement Pavement (PCCP) spans 689.38 meters with a width of 6.1 meters. Moreover, six (6) Reinforced Concrete Pipe Culvert (RCPC) and five (5) Reinforced Concrete Box Culvert (RCBC) are installed as well as slope protection with a length of 125 meters.

Sulpan Cave is one of the hidden gems of Samar with every cavern and unique formation of stalactites and stalagmites allowing tourists to discover and experience fun and extreme adventure. This road will give tourists and locals alike easy access going to the cave. Ms. Ester Guldo says, “before, they would go though the river just to reach the cave since its easier than trudging through a grassland terrain leading to the cave. Now, it’s already accessible and helps the community in leading tourists to the cave.”

This is drawn from the General Appropriations Act (GAA) FY 2023 with a total contract amount of P48.82 million under the Tourism Road Infrastructure Program (TRIP).

8ID Commander visits 42nd IB to bolster morale of troops

By DPAO, 8ID PA
May 23, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – To bolster the morale of its military personnel, Maj. Gen. Camilo Z. Ligayo, Commander of the 8th Infantry "Stormtroopers" Division, visited the headquarters of the 42nd Infantry "Tagapagtanggol" Battalion, an operational control unit of 8ID in Barangay Gap-ang, Dolores, Eastern Samar, on May 23, 2024.

During his talk to troops, Maj. Gen. Ligayo lauded the battalion for their significant accomplishments that greatly contributed to combating insurgency in the area.

Maj. Gen. Ligayo also encouraged the troops to sustain their gains and efforts emphasizing the battalion’s crucial role in supporting the local government unit to achieve peace, stability, and socio-economic progress.

"Our mission is to support the residents in achieving socio-economic development in their community. We are here to help them recover from the violence inflicted by communist terrorists," Maj. Gen. Ligayo said.

Furthermore, Maj. Gen. Ligayo reminded the troops to continue being responsible and disciplined soldiers as they carry out their sworn duty of securing the people and the nation.

"We are making significant progress against the insurgency. Together, we will be able to put an end to this decades-long problem in the region," he added.

Third phase of Calbayog Airport by-pass road starts

By GISSELLE G. PARUNGAO
May 21, 2024

CALBAYOG CITY – Third phase in the construction of the Calbayog Airport By-Pass Road in Calbayog City has started and funded under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for FY 2024.

Samar First DEO will be working on the additional gravel road that will span 1.16 lane kilometers and concrete road of 2.45 lane kilometers. Other than that, stone masonry will also be built with a length of 580 meters, will be installing 44 pieces of pipe culverts and nine (9) poles of single-arm solar LED lights.

This multi-year project started in 2022 that worked on the embankment of 385.1 meters while in 2023 there was an additional 0.761 lane km. This is targeted to be completed in 2025.

OIC-DE Raulito Yangzon states that this project will make a vital contribution to the city’s growth and economic development.

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) will be closing a portion of the Daang Maharlika as part of their expansion of the Calbayog City airport and so this by-pass road will serve as the main road once it happens. It will start in Barangay Trinidad at Sitio Talahib and will connect to the diversion road in Barangay Cagsalaosao.

For the meantime, this road will provide an alternate route and access road for the flow of traffic when approaching the city thereby serving as avenue for a hassle-free road and safety assurance for the drivers, motorists and pedestrians until CAAP decides to close their portion of the Daang Maharlika.

Samar First mounts rainwater collector system to 7 recipient barangays

By FLORSELISSA JUSAYAN
May 21, 2024

CALBAYOG CITY – Seven (7) recipients benefited the 4000-liter rainwater collection system installed by Samar First District Engineering Office with a contract amount of P2.3 million.

The recipients of the rainwater collector project are as follows: Sta. Cruz Elementary School, Bunyagan Elementary School, Pajo Elementary School, Balugo Elementary School, Barangay Victory Multipurpose Hall, Barangay Giraga-an Multipurpose Hall, Barangay Migara Evacuation Center.

This project is funded under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for FY 2023.

Mr. Glenn Y. Ocong, School Head of Bunyagan Elementary School, stated that previously, their water source was a deep well but water is scarce and then the barangay provided a water connection but with limited supply thus, water source is a problem in the said school.

He further shared that the water catchment has been beneficial to the school, especially now that we are experiencing the El Niño phenomenon. The water collector is highly beneficial to the school, particularly to the children, as this is utilized for handwashing, in the comfort rooms, and other purposes needed by the school and students.

8ID honors fallen hero in an encounter with Communist Terrorists in Northern Samar

By DPAO, 8ID PA
May 19, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division, Philippine Army mourns the loss of Corporal Isagani D. Balmes of the 19th Infantry Battalion (19IB), who heroically sacrificed his life during an armed encounter with the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Barangay Lourdes, Las Navas, Northern Samar, on May 16, 2024.

Corporal Balmes, a resident of Taft, Eastern Samar, sustained fatal injuries to his lower chest and right forearm after a 15-minute firefight with the CTGs.

Corporal Balmes exhibited exceptional dedication to his duty and demonstrated heroism by taking the lead in the Community Support Program activities to facilitate the delivery of basic services in the community.

Major General Camilo Ligayo, Commander of the 8th Infantry Division said that the stormtroopers are saddened over the loss of an exemplary soldier who demonstrated unwavering dedication and service in the pursuit of peace in Eastern Visayas.

“Corporal Balmes’ valor and dedication to duty epitomize the highest ideals of military service. His sacrifice will be remembered and honored by his comrades and the nation,” stated Maj. Gen. Ligayo.

Corporal Balmes had previously been awarded the Gold Cross Medal, the third-highest military award for heroism, for his courageous actions during an armed encounter against the remnants of FC-1 (D), SRC Emporium in the vicinity of Sitio Gibulwangan, Barangay Senonogan, Pambujan, Northern Samar, on September 15, 2023.