21 municipalities in Eastern Visayas attains Stable Peace and Security Status

By DPAO, 8ID PA
June 19, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – A total of 21 Local Government Units in Eastern Visayas have been declared with a Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) status, showcasing significant advancements in the region's anti-insurgency efforts.

The municipalities conferred with SIPS status are Pagsanghan, Tarangnan, San Sebastian, Sta. Margarita, and Sto. Niño in the province of Samar. In Northern Samar, the municipalities of Allen, San Jose, Rosario, Capul, and Biri; Bontoc in Southern Leyte; Palompon, Isabel, Matag-ob, Merida, and Hilongos in Leyte; and Giporlos, Mercedes, San Julian, and Taft in Eastern Samar, have been recognized with SIPS status.

Said municipalities were granted the SIPS status because of the successful conduct of Local Peace Engagement (LPE) down to the Barangay level and the effective multi-sectoral commitment for peace and security.

During the declaration ceremony in Taft, Eastern Samar, on June 19, 2024, Brigadier General Lenart Lelina, Commander of the 801st Infantry Brigade, emphasized that a municipality is recognized with SIPS status only when no constituents are members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG).

"Municipalities and provinces free from insurgency are declared to have stable internal peace and security. Hopefully, the entire province of Eastern Samar will achieve this status when all its municipalities are declared insurgency-free," said Brig. Gen. Lelina.

In a separate SIPS declaration in Leyte province, the 802nd Infantry Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Noel Vestuir emphasized that the declaration of Stable Internal Peace and Security Status represents a victory of freedom from the deceptive ideas of the New People's Army.

“The SIPS declaration is a testament to the collective efforts and commitment to peace, unity, and progress of all stakeholders. It highlights the importance of embracing peace and working together to achieve reconciliation and sustained development,” Brig.Gen. Vestuir said.

In his message, Taft Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) Chair, Mayor Gina Ty, expressed her gratitude to the law enforcement agencies, community leaders, and the people of Taft for their full support and cooperation in achieving a peaceful community.

“We have come together, united by a common goal, have demonstrated that when we work together in harmony, we can overcome any challenge and create a safer and more prosperous future for our community,” Mayor Ty emphasized.

Alongside SIPS declaration is the ceremonial signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) among Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) and other peace partners.

This MOU aims to strengthen the support of the LGUs in maintaining peace and order, conducting activities to enhance law enforcement operations, and preventing the resurgence of CTGs.

Meanwhile, Major General Camilo Z. Ligayo, Commander of the 8ID, reiterated to the people of Eastern Visayas that maintaining a stable peace and security environment cannot be achieved without the support of the region's constituents.

"The 8ID aims to completely eradicate the decades-long insurgency problem in the region. Therefore, I urge the remaining CTG members to surrender to the government and take advantage of its programs to start a new life. The government is very willing to help you all," emphasized Maj. Gen. Ligayo.

DAR revisits resettlement policy framework

By JOSE ALSMITH L. SORIA
June 19, 2024

TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) met on Wednesday, June 5 this year, the agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) affected by overlapping land use in Matag-ob, a town some 92 kilometers away from the provincial capital of Leyte.

A focus group discussion with the said ARBs was conducted by Environmental and Social Safeguard (ESS) specialists from Visayas and Mindanao as part of the pilot testing of the Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF).

Rosario Regalado, ESS lead coordinator under DAR’s Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (SPLIT) project, explained that this activity is to identify the gaps and challenges encountered in the field through validation and consultation as the SPLIT project progresses.

This is also to better understand and implement the RPF, as we revisit the applicability of this safeguard instrument as required by the World Bank, which provides funding for the implementation of the SPLIT project, Regalado added.

She also shared that Region 8 was chosen pilot area for this activity because of the magnitude of landholdings covered by collective Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs) given under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) that are overlapping with timberlands.

Atty. Robert Anthony Yu, DAR Regional Director in Eastern Visayas, disclosed that Lot 981, the subjected landholding in Matag-ob, is covered by a collective CLOA with an area of 111 hectares traversing Barangays Candelaria, Mansalip and Malazarte. It has 58 identified ARBs, said Yu.

On the same occasion, Yu led the team, including World Bank representatives, Mary Ann Botengan and Luisa Martinez, and Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) representative, Angelyn Costelo, in the conduct of an ocular inspection of the said landholding believed to have a slope of over 18 percent.

But during the ocular inspection, it was found out that the said landholding has a slope of 14 percent only, which according to Engineer Ma. Dioleta Vilas, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Assistant Chief of the Surveys and Mapping Division, can be reclassified to alienable and disposable (A and D).

Regalado said that the presence of officials from partner agencies, local government unit and non-government organization (NGO) during the four-day activity helped them attain the objectives which is very crucial in the implementation of the SPLIT project.

The RPF provides alternative non-monetary compensation to affected ARBs in the implementation of the SPLIT project, such as relocation to another landholding.

SPLIT project subdivides lands covered by collective CLOAs and issue individual electronically-generated land titles to ARBs to improve land tenure security and strengthen property rights over their awarded lots.

Meanwhile, Assistant Regional Director for Operations, Renato Badilla, reported that DAR has already validated 126,423.38 hectares or 61 percent of its 206,436-hectare target in SPLIT project.

CARD SME opens its 40th branch in Zamboanga Sibugay

By EDRIAN B. BANANIA
June 17, 2024

SAN PABLO CITY – CARD SME Bank, a thrift bank under the CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institution (CARD MRI), opens its 40th branch on June 10, 2024, in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay to further expand the reach of the institution to fulfill its goal of growing the businesses of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSMEs) clients.

CARD SME Bank offers a variety of products and services such as savings, remittances, and various types of loans, including business loans, to assist MSMEs in growing their businesses.

“This expansion is our way of fulfilling our part in nation-building by providing MSMEs much-needed support to sustain their businesses which will ultimately improve the economic landscape of our trading areas,” CARD SME Bank President and CEO Cynthia Baldeo stated.

As a full-fledged thrift bank, the institution also provides value-added financial products and services to clients and non-clients alike, particularly to less fortunate individuals who want to help themselves gain financial freedom.

“At CARD MRI, we pride ourselves in putting our clients first in everything we do. The 40th CARD SME Bank branch also strengthens financial accessibility and reaffirms our commitment to providing innovative financial products and personalized services to our clients nationwide,” Baldeo said during the branch opening.

The opening was also graced by CARD MRI Managing Director Mr. Aristeo Dequito, Senior Management Adviser Ms. Mary Jane Pererras, Security Consultant General Dickson Hermoso, staff, and clients. The ribbon-cutting event was further honored by the presence of Ipil Mayor Honorable Mr. Anamel Olegario.

The new branch is located at Purok Everlasting, Don Andres, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay.

As of April 2024, CARD SME Bank has more than 6.6 billion outstanding loans and serves more than 1.2 million clients. The institution aims to become the best thrift bank in the country and be able to reach and serve more clients in the future.

More troops deployed in Eastern Visayas to totally eradicate remnants of the CPP-NPA

By DPAO, 8ID PA
June 15, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division welcomed the arrival of 1st Howitzer Platoon, Bravo Battery, 7th Field Artillery Battalion (7FAB), Army Artillery Regiment (AAR), Philippine Army, at its Headquarters on June 14, 2024.

During the welcome ceremony, the Assistant Division Commander 8ID, Brig. Gen. Perfecto P. Peñaredondo said that the arrival of the platoon marks a significant moment, as we unite our strength in the ongoing campaign to bring peace and stability in the Region.

“The JTF-Storm is steadfast in our commitment to decimate the remnants of EVRPC through decisive actions and relentless operations. Our approach focuses on neutralizing the Communist Terrorist Group, while creating opportunities and welcoming those who will choose the peaceful way and return to the folds of the law”, Brig.Gen. Peñaredondo added.

Meanwhile, the 8th Infantry Division Commander, Major General Camilo Z. Ligayo expressed his trust and confidence that the 1st Howitzer Platoon will significantly boost the current gains of 8ID and the JTF-Storm in the fight of ending insurgency in the region.

“The significant accomplishments in your previous assignment speaks of your dedication and hard work in accomplishing your mission. Now that you are here in 8ID, I am confident that you will be able to help us boost our campaign of totally eradicating the remnants of the CPP-NPA,” Maj.Gen. Ligayo said.

The deployment of the 1st Howitzer Platoon, Bravo Battery of 7FAB, AAR with their 155mm M114 Howitzer will bolster the current firepower capabilities of the Division for the total eradication of the remnants of Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC), the Communist Party of the Philippines- New People’s Army’s (CPP-NPA’s) umbrella organization in the region.

The 155mm M114 Howitzer is one of the largest artillery assets of the Philippine Army.

Another 3 towns in Leyte declares Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition

By 802nd Infantry Brigade, 8ID PA
June 13, 2024

CAMP DOWNES, Ormoc City – In celebration of Philippine Independence Day, three towns in Leyte have formally declared their localities free from the threat of the Communist Terrorist Movement.

On June 12, the towns of Hilongos, Isabel, and Merida in the Province of Leyte announced that their towns are already in a state of Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC), which represents a critical turning point in their continuous efforts to uphold peace and security.

Isabel and Merida were cleared of Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) influence in 2016, followed by Hilongos in 2019. Since then, these municipalities have achieved and sustained a conflict-manageable status.

The declaration ceremony was attended by key provincial and local officials headed by the Municipal Mayors and Chairs of their respective Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC), Hon. Manuel R. Villahermosa of Hilongos, Hon. Edgardo Cordeño of Isabel, and Hon. Rolando M. Villasencio of Merida.

Ms. Annabelle V. De Asis, Provincial Local Government Operations Officer of the province of Leyte was present in Isabel and represented by respective MLGOO in Hilongos and Merida. Hon. Carlos P. Loreto, Board Member of the Province Leyte represented the Provincial Governor of Leyte in Hilongos.

Senior military and police officials were also in attendance to lend their support. Brigade Commander of the 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade, Brigadier General Noel A. Vestuir, Commanding Officer of the 14th Infantry (Avenger) Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Edgar A. Gabia, and Police Lieutenant Colonel Margarito Salańo representing the Provincial Director of the Leyte Provincial Police Office in Hilongos.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Brigade Commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade, Colonel Rico O. Amaro, attended the ceremonies in Isabel with Lieutenant Colonel Charlie Saclot, Commanding Officer, 93rd Infantry (Bantay Kapayapaan) Battalion and Police Lieutenant Colonel Ricky Reli representing the Leyte Provincial Police Office in Isabel and Merida. Brigadier General Vetuir joined the decalaration in Merida in the afternoon.

The SIPSC declaration's highlights included the signing of Memorandums of Agreement (MOAs) and Pledges of Commitment, as well as the release of white doves symbolizing peace and new beginnings.
The municipal mayors expressed their gratitude to all stakeholders who contributed to achieving SIPSC in their municipalities. They emphasized that this milestone paves the way for further progress and an enhanced quality of life for their constituents.

The Philippine Army, Philippine National Police, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) reaffirmed their strong support and commitment to sustaining peace and security in Hilongos, Isabel, and Merida. Brigadier General Noel A. Vestuir commended all stakeholders in the Province of Leyte and in the municipalities for their commitment to upholding a safe environment.

"With the declaration of Hilongos, Isabel, and Merida as Stable Internal Peace and Security Conditions, we send a strong message of unity in our quest to end local communist armed conflict and maintain a peaceful and secure environment for the peace-loving people of these towns," Vestuir said.

Vestuir emphasized that the achievement of the state of stable internal peace and security condition is a result of the cooperation and efforts of local government entities and their communities. He further urged the local leaders particularly the Barangay Captains that the effort shall be continued and sustained. "Let us be inhospitable to the remnants of the CPP-NPA-NDF and its allies and never again allow them to gain foothold in our communities," Vestuir added.

“The declaration of Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC) in Hilongos, Isabel, and Merida on this day of Philippine Independence is a victory of freedom from the deceptive ideas of the New People's Army and the Leyteños dedication to peace and security, signifying a major advancement in their continued efforts to protect their communities,” Vestuir concluded.

Before the declaration, the municipalities participated in a nationwide simultaneous flag-raising ceremony in connection with the 126th Philippine Independence Day celebration with the theme “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan. (Freedom. Future. History)”

22 former NPA members reunite for peace efforts in Eastern Samar

By 802nd Infantry Brigade, 8ID PA
June 10, 2024

CAMP DOWNES, Ormoc City – Twenty-two former New People’s Army (NPA) of the Apoy Platoon of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) has reunited today in Barangay Locsoon, Borongan City, Eastern Samar to talk about peace and collaboration.

In a significant development for peace efforts, the 78th Infantry (Warrior) Battalion, 8th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army under the operational control of the 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade has successfully brought together these former active members of the NPAs in Eastern Samar. This reunion marks a pivotal moment in the region's journey towards peace, stability, and unity.

Following a series of strategic initiatives and programs led by local government units (LGUs) in Samar and Eastern Samar, the manpower of the NPA's Apoy Platoon has significantly reduced, accompanied by the surrender of firearms. The success of the LGU-driven Localized Peace Engagement (LPE) and the innovative Friends Rescued through the Engagement of their Families (FReE Families) program has played a crucial role in this positive transformation.

The commitment of the 22 former NPAs to support peace efforts in the southern municipalities of Samar and Eastern Samar underscores their dedication to promoting harmony and facilitating the return of their former comrades to normal life.

“With the launch of Project "APOY," which stands for “Advocating Programs that promote reconciliation and Optimizing gains Yielding to Peace”, these individuals are set to become key allies in advocating for peace and reconciliation,” Lieutenant Colonel Joseph D. Bugaoan, Battalion Commander, 78IB elaborated.

It can be recalled that upon deployment of the 802nd Infantry Brigade in Samar Island on June 1, 2023, the Brigade was able to reduce the manpower of Apoy Platoon from 47 to 27, and its firearms from 43 to 31 at the end of 2023. Seventeen of these personnel and the nine firearms resulted from the FReE Families program.

In the first half of 2024, another ten former NPAs heeded the call of their families to embrace peace, bringing six high-powered firearms with them. The series of surrenders of these former NPA fighters resulted from the follow-through of the LGU-led LPE and the Enhanced-FReE Families program. Currently, only 16 members have remained in the platoon.

“We also aimed to help the families of our remaining sixteen (16) former comrades in Apoy Platoon to choose the path of peace, and be reunited with their families and live a peaceful life like us,” FR Arnel Encinas @Kenneth said in the vernacular. Encinas was the former Vice Commanding Officer, Apoy Platoon, and Squad Leader of Squad 2.

The active involvement of local chief executives and the unwavering support of Governors from Samar and Eastern Samar signal a unified approach towards sustainable peace-building initiatives. By engaging with former NPA members and their communities, the collaboration between LGUs, the military, and third-party peace advocates aim to dismantle the influence of armed groups and foster a culture of peace and cooperation.

The “Project APOY” was successfully launched with the support of Hon. Sharee Ann Tan, Governor of the Province of Samar, and Governor Ben Evardone of the Province of Eastern Samar. The activity was graced by Local Chief Executives (LCEs) of the City of Borongan City, Hon. Mayor Jose Ivan “Dayan” C. Agda; Hon. Mayor Gilbert I. Go of Giporlos; and Hon. Mayor Flora C. Ty of General McArthur all in the province of Eastern Samar; and Hon. Mayor Clarito P. Rosal of Hinabangan, Samar.

Meanwhile, Brigadier General Noel A. Vestuir, Commander, 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade explained that the 22 former NPA members will take an active role as peace advocates within their communities.

“These former NPAs were rescued from the deceptive ideology of the Communist Terrorist Movement and are living testaments to the transformative power of unity and reconciliation. Their journey from conflict to collaboration embodies the hope for a brighter, more peaceful future in Eastern Samar and the whole of Region 8,” Vestuir ended.

ARBs in EV receive cash assistance from DSWD, Tingog Partylist

By JOSE ALSMITH L. SORIA
June 6, 2024

TACLOBAN CITY – Over a thousand agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) throughout Eastern Visayas received on Tuesday, May 28 this year, cash support assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Tingog Partylist.

About 1,199 ARBs from different parts of the region trooped to designated payout areas to get their cash assistance under the DSWD’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.

This is in partnership with the Tingog Partylist, said Atty. Jonalyndie Chua, DSWD’s Information Officer.

Atty. Robert Anthony Yu, Regional Director of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Eastern Visayas, coordinated with the Tingog Partylist, who provides fund for the said assistance, the inclusion of ARBs who received Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs) during the May 20 CLOA distribution with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the Tacloban City Convention Center.

However, those who previously received similar assistance from the DSWD were deleted from the list.

On Tuesday, after the validation by DSWD, qualified ARBs throughout the region simultaneously received five thousand pesos each.

In Northern Samar, 298 ARBs from the towns of Allen, Victoria, Lavezares, Rosario, San Jose, San Isidro, Capul, Palapag, Gamay, Lapinig, Lope de Vega, Catubig, San Roque, Pambujan, Mondragon, Las Navas, Laoang and Catarman received their cash assistance which was released at the DAR Provincial Office in Catarman and at the Municipal Agrarian Reform Offices of Palapag and Allen.

In Western Samar, 216 ARBs from the towns of Jiabong, Pinabacdao, Motiong, Villareal, Sta. Rita, Marabut, Daram, Sta. Margarita, Pagsanghan, Tarangnan, Gandara, San Jorge and from the cities of Catbalogan and Calbayog received their cash assistance at the DAR Provincial Office in Catbalogan and at the Municipal Agrarian Reform Office of San Jorge.

In Southern Leyte, 99 ARBs from the towns of Malitbog, Macrohon, and Hinunangan and from the City of Maasin received their cash assistance at the Municipal Agrarian Reform Office of Maasin and at the Hinunangan Municipal Cultural Center.

In Leyte, 586 ARBs from the towns of Alangalang, Babatngon, Palo, San Miguel, Tanauan, Calubian, Leyte, San Isidro, Tabango, Villaba, Albuera, Isabel, Kananga, Matag-ob, Merida, Palompon and from the cities of Tacloban and Ormoc initially received the said cash assistance in designated payout centers, which included the headquarter of Tingog Patylist in this city.

Meanwhile, one of the recipients, Epifanio Calubia from Las Navas, expressed his gratitude to DAR, DSWD and Tingog Partylist. According to him, “Daku in inga bulig san mga parag-uma.” (This is of big help to the farmers.)

1 wounded Communist NPA Terrorist captured in Northern Samar clash

By DPAO, 8ID PA
June 3, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – A wounded Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) was captured following an armed encounter with the government troops in the hinterlands of Brgy. Igot, Pambujan, Northern Samar on June 1, 2024.

The troops of 19th Infantry “Commando” Battalion, Philippine Army, conducted a focused military operation following an information provided by a concerned civilian that a group of armed men were in Barangay Igot conducting extortion activities.

At about 5:30 in the morning, the troops encountered the rebels. After 5-minute firefight, the government troops seized one M16 rifle and other personal belongings of the CNTs.

On the same day, a text message sent from a concerned citizen was received by the troops about the presence of a wounded individual near the Brgy. Chapel along the Pambujan River.

The wounded individual was identified as Lagi Cabides alias Lagui, member of Squad 4, SRGU, SRC Emporium, EVRPC who was abandoned by his comrades after sustaining gunshot wound in his left ear and cheek.

The troops together with civilian volunteers applied first aid treatment and brought him to Pambujan Rural Health Unit. He was then referred to the hospital for further medical treatment.

Further, while the troops were conducting pursuit operations, they encountered more or less eight CNTs in in the hinterlands of Bgy Cagbigajo, Pambujan.

The firefight lasted for about three minutes and the CNTs scampered in different direction leaving behind two improvised shotguns and one International Humanitarian Law- banned Anti-Personnel Mine.

Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel Marvin Maraggun, Commanding Officer of the 19IB, commended and expressed his appreciation for the support of the Barangay Task Force ELCAC of Pambujan and the cooperation of civilians in their role to end insurgency.

“The information provided by concerned citizens regarding the presence of armed rebels indicates that the community completely realized that they also have a role in solving decades-long insurgency,” said Lt. Col. Maraggun.

Major General Camilo Z. Ligayo, the Commander of 8ID reiterated the call to the remaining remnants of Communist Terrorist Groups to lay down their arms and return to the folds of the law.

“We will ensure your safety and will help you get the necessary assistance from the government. Choose a peaceful path, and be united with your family,” Maj.Gen. Ligayo expressed.

LGU, 20IB, and partners launch Sagip-Tingin Project in Catubig, Northern Samar

By 20th Infantry Battalion, 8ID PA
June 2, 2024

LAS NAVAS, Northern Samar – The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Catubig, in collaboration with the 20th Infantry (We Lead) Battalion and partners, launched the “Sagip-Tingin” Project at the Rural Health Unit (RHU) Catubig this morning, June 2.

The “Sagip-Tingin” Project aimed to provide free eye screening and eye check-ups to the residents of Catubig, especially those from former conflict-affected barangays and Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs).

A total of 129 patients availed of the free eye screening and check-up services during the project launch. Additionally, the LGU Catubig and 20IB facilitated the processing of PhilHealth applications for the beneficiaries, ensuring comprehensive healthcare coverage for those in need.

Mrs. Analyn L. Anzano, a mother of an 8-year-old child dealing with an eye problem, expressed her gratitude to the LGU Catubig, 20IB, and We Care Philippines for the “Sagip-Tingin” Project.

"Marami na po kaming utang at nahihirapan na po talaga kaming mag-asawa para matustusan ang pagpapagamot para sa aming anak. Sa awa ng Diyos, may dumating na programa, ang Sagip-Tingin Project. Kaya nung nalaman ko po, sinamantala ko na po para mapatingin yung anak namin. Maraming salamat po sa Panginoon at nagkaroon po ng ganitong programa. Sana po matulungan niyo po kami," Mrs. Anzano shared.

Lt. Col. Richard P. Villaflor, Acting Commanding Officer of 20IB, reiterated the battalion's unwavering commitment to protecting the interests of the people in the 2nd District of Northern Samar.

"As guardians of peace and advocates for the well-being of our community, the 20IB We Lead Troopers remain resolute in our commitment to serve and protect. We are deeply invested in the prosperity and health of the residents we serve, and we will tirelessly pursue partnerships to expand our efforts in providing essential services.", Lt. Col. Villaflor affirmed.

Partner agencies included the, We Care Philippines and the Carol Foundation Eye Center. The project received overwhelming support from the community, with residents of Catubig eagerly participating in addressing their eye health concerns.

Following the consultations, it was revealed that 42 patients were diagnosed with cataracts, 23 with Pterygium, and five (5) with special eye conditions. Others were prescribed to avail eyeglasses to address their visual impairments. Free eye operations for those diagnosed with conditions requiring surgical intervention will be scheduled soon.

The Sagip-Tingin Project underscores the commitment of the LGU, 20IB, and their partners to promote the health and well-being of the residents of Catubig. By extending essential eye care services to far-flung communities, the project seeks to alleviate the burden of eye-related illnesses and improve the quality of life for all Catubignons.

Additional troops augmented in Region 8 to bolster campaign of ending local communist armed conflict

By DPAO, 8ID PA
June 1, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division welcomed the arrival of 2nd Howitzer Platoon, Bravo Company, 3rd Field Artillery Battery (3FAB), Armor Artillery Regiment (AAR), Philippine Army, in the region on May 31, 2024.

They will serve as a support troops of the Joint Task Force Storm and 8ID in its campaign of totally eradicating local communists in Region 8.

In the welcome ceremony, 8ID Chief of Staff, Colonel Cesar Molina expressed his trust and confidence that the 2nd Howitzer Platoon, Bravo Company, 3FAB will greatly contribute in sustaining the gains of the government troops against the local communists.

“Your role is crucial in gaining an advantage to end the insurgency and safeguarding the safety and security of the Eastern Visayas. We trust in your abilities to carry out your duties with the utmost professionalism and expertise,” Col. Molina stated.

The Platoon will be under the Operational Control of the 803rd Infantry Brigade, the main effort in confronting the Regional Guerilla Unit (RGU), Sentro De Gravidad of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee in the province of Northern Samar.