Capital city of the province of Southern Leyte declared insurgency-free

By 802nd Infantry Brigade, 8ID PA
November 30, 2024

CAMP DOWNES, Ormoc City – Maasin, the capital city of Southern Leyte was declared in a Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC) yesterday, November 29, 2024.

The declaration ceremony was attended by key city and barangay officials headed by Hon. Nacional V. Mercado, Mayor and the Chairman of City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (CTF-ELCAC) of Maasin City and Congresswoman Luz V. Mercado of Southern Leyte 1st congressional district.

Senior military and police officials were also present during the activity to witness the declaration such as Colonel Rico O Amaro, Deputy Brigade Commander of the 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade, Lieutenant Colonel Edgar A. Gabia, Commanding Officer of the 14th Infantry (Avenger) Battalion, and Police Colonel Hector F. Enage, Provincial Director, Southern Leyte, Police Provincial Office.

The SIPSC declaration highlighted the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Pledge of Commitment, as well as the release of white doves which symbolizes peace and new beginnings.

Mayor Mercado expressed his city's gratitude to all stakeholders who were instrumental in achieving the state of SIPSC in Maasin City. He emphasized that this milestone paves the way for further progress in the City, enhancing the quality of life for its constituents. The Philippine Army, Philippine National Police, and the DILG reaffirmed their strong support and commitment to maintain stable internal peace and security in Maasin City.

Colonel Amaro congratulated the constituents, city and barangay officials for their active cooperation and support in sustaining internal peace and security in the area. "Congratulations to the local government unit Maasin City, our activity today showcases our commitment and advocacy for peaceful and conflict-resilient communities. Let us be PROUD, be BOLD, and be LOUD in making Maasin City a template for peace, security and conflict resiliency. Let us make Maasin City a peaceful, friendly and terrorist inhospitable community for our childrens and children's children”, Amaro concluded.

Meanwhile, Brigadier General Noel Vestuir, Commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade, praised the constituents, city LGU and barangay officials for their dedication in maintaining a secure environment. Vestuir highlighted the collaborative efforts of the local government units and their communities in achieving SIPSC.

Renowned historic Island town of Limasawa in Southern Leyte declared insurgency-free

By 802nd Infantry Brigade, 8ID PA
November 28, 2024

CAMP DOWNES, Ormoc City – The municipality of Limasawa Island in Southern Leyte is declared being in a Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC) today, November 28, 2024 in a ceremony that was attended by key municipal and barangay officials headed by Hon. Melchor P. Petracorta, Mayor and the Chairman of Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) of Limasawa Island.

Military and police officials were also present during the activity to witness the declaration such as Colonel Rico O Amaro, Deputy Brigade Commander of the 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade, Major Darwin Cajada, Battalion Executive Officer of 14th Infantry (Avenger) Battalion, and Police Captain Edwin Cordina, Chief of Police, Limasawa Municipal Police Station.

The SIPSC declaration highlighted the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Pledge of Commitment, as well as the release of white doves which symbolizes peace and new beginnings.

Mayor Petracorta expressed his town's gratitude to all stakeholders who were instrumental in achieving the state of SIPSC of Limasawa Island. He emphasized that this milestone paves the way for further progress in the municipality, enhancing the quality of life for its constituents. The Philippine Army, Philippine National Police, and the DILG reaffirmed their strong support and commitment to maintain stable peace and security in Limasawa Island.

Colonel Amaro congratulated the constituents, municipal and barangay officials for their active cooperation and support in sustaining internal peace and security in the area. "Congratulations to the local government unit of Limasawa, our activity today showcase our commitment and advocacy for peaceful and conflict-resilient communities. Let us therefore be PROUD, be BOLD, and be LOUD in declaring that the peace-loving people of Limasawa Island abhor any form of terrorism and are inhospitable to any terrorist organization who wish to destroy the Peace that we nortured for a very long time." Amaro concluded.

Meanwhile, Brigadier General Noel Vestuir, Commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade, praised the constituents, municipal and barangay officials for their dedication in maintaining a secure environment. Vestuir highlighted the collaborative efforts of the local government units and their communities in achieving SIPSC.

Validation of ARBs in Leyte nears completion

By JOSE ALSMITH L. SORIA
November 27, 2024

BURAUEN, Leyte – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Leyte is near to complete its validation of agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) within the 10,669 targeted landholdings, covering an aggregate area of 93,940.1486 hectares, throughout the province under the Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (SPLIT) project.

On Thursday last week, November 14, three field validation teams (FVTs) converged in Barangay Kagbana, an upland village, about 25 kilometers away from this town, to validate some 229 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) of lot 12185 issued previously with a collective Certificate of Land Ownership Award (CLOA).

Under the World Bank-assisted SPLIT project, landholdings covered by collective CLOAs are subdivided and electronically generated individual land titles are eventually issued to ARBs to improve land tenure security and strengthen property rights.

Rodolfo Ecija, 61, the barangay chairman of Barangay Kagbana, was grateful that despite the distance SPLIT project reached their place.

Elma Banagbanag, 55 and a member of the Mamanwa tribe, expressed gratitude to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and DAR Secretary Conrado Estrella III for the opportunity to be a beneficiary of the government’s agrarian reform program.

Geodetic Engineer Bridget Alvarez, who handles the three FVTs disclosed that Leyte has already accomplished 10,517 landholdings covered by collective CLOAs with a combined area of 80,085.98 hectares, leaving a balance of only 12,597.92 hectares.

Alvarez shared that the bulk of the remaining balance is situated in this town, while the others are in the municipality of Palo, and are expected to be completed by the end of November this year.

The FVTs were supervised by Senior Agrarian Reform Program Technologist, Ranulfo Advincula, who answered questions related to the validation and other agrarian issues raised by the residents in said area during the activity.

NMP joins partners with AGIO-8 to boost public information and collaboration

Press Release
November 26, 2024

TACLOBAN CITY – The National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) reaffirmed its commitment to effective information dissemination and public engagement as it participated in the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the Association of Government Information Officers (AGIO) Region VIII. Held at the Leyte Academic Center in Palo, Leyte, the event formalized the collaboration among government information officers in the region, aiming to institutionalize their critical role in delivering factual, relevant, and unified messaging to the public.

The MOA establishes a collaborative framework to support the whole-of-nation approach in information dissemination and development communication. It seeks to create synergy among member-agencies of the national government by unifying core messages for national initiatives, assisting government agencies and local government units in their information campaigns, and undertaking projects that promote public welfare. The agreement also emphasizes the importance of enhancing skills through capacity-building activities, upholding professionalism and press freedom, and providing platforms for information dissemination and publication.

The occasion also marked the induction of AGIO-8 officers, including the President, Vice-President, and Secretary, who are entrusted with leading the association in advancing its objectives. With this strengthened alliance, AGIO-8 aims to unify and amplify the voices of government information officers, enabling them to deliver impactful and coordinated communication efforts that benefit the public and support national development.

The NMP stands united with AGIO-8 in promoting transparency, professionalism, and collaboration to achieve shared goals for regional and national progress.

8ID Commander honors Wounded-In-Action soldiers

By DPAO, 8ID PA
November 26, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division’s Commander, Maj.Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio, awarded medals to four soldiers recuperating at Camp Lukban Station Hospital in Barangay Maulong, Catbalogan City, Samar, on November 24, 2024.

Maj. Gen. Orio presented the Wounded Personnel Medal to Sgt. Galos Baldono Jr., Cpl. Christian Egana and Private Andrian Tomalabcab of the 52nd Infantry (Agila) Battalion. These soldiers sustained injuries during a clash with communist NPA terrorists (CNTs) in Barangay Malidong, Gamay, Northern Samar, on November 12, 2024.

Another Wounded Personnel Medal was awarded to Pvt. Rodel Clavecilla of the 10th Scout Ranger Company. Clavecilla sustained injuries during an encounter with the CNTs in Barangay San Jose, Mapanas, Northern Samar, on November 11, 2024.

In addition to the medals, the soldiers received cash and in-kind assistance to support their recovery.

During his visit, Maj. Gen. Orio emphasized the division's commitment to supporting its personnel and their families, acknowledging the sacrifices made by soldiers in the line of duty.

“The 8ID honors your sacrifice and bravery in fulfilling your duty. This situation will not deter us from our mission; instead, your heroism inspires every Stormtrooper to strengthen our campaign against insurgency,” said Maj. Gen. Orio said.

NMP brings free basic training to BPSF Samar

Press Release
November 25, 2024

CALBAYOG CITY – NMP successfully issues a total of fifty (50) free Basic Training (BT) vouchers valid for enrollment within January to December 2025 to Samareños during the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF) Samar held on 22-23 November 2024 at the Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), Calbayog City, Samar.

This initiative reflects NMP’s commitment to providing accessible and equitable opportunities for Filipinos to enhance their livelihoods and contribute to the country’s position as a leading provider of skilled maritime workers.

BT is a foundational requirement and prerequisite for employment aboard ships, serving as a gateway for aspiring maritime professionals to unlock opportunities in the international shipping industry. Accredited under the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), BT ensures that individuals are equipped with critical skills in personal survival techniques, fire prevention and firefighting, elementary first aid, and personal safety and social responsibilities.

Attendees who visited NMP's booth also received detailed information about the training programs, assistance to online enrollment process, and limited-edition corporate giveaways.

Accordingly, more than thirty-five (35) government agencies were in attendance during the fair coming together to provide a wide range of free services across various sectors, including healthcare, education, livelihood support, legal assistance, and skills training, ensuring that individuals and families could access essential government programs and initiatives.

The BPSF is a one-stop hub for accessing a variety of public services and programs, bringing government services closer to the Filipinos.

Strong Army, strong country: Philippine Army rules 32nd AARM

By OACPA
November 22, 2024

FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City – The Philippine Army (PA) Shooting Contingent known for their moniker “Manunudla” showcased the Army's constant pursuit of excellence as they clinched the Over-all Championship Title in the 32nd ASEAN Armies Rifle Meet (AARM) held from November 14-22, 2024 at the PA Marksmanship Training Facility, Camp O’Donnell, Capas, Tarlac.

Emerging victorious across multiple categories, the PA Shooting Contingent demonstrated exceptional precision and teamwork against top marksmen from nine other competing ASEAN armies. The PA secured the championship titles in the Carbine, Pistol Women, Machine Gun, and Rifle categories.

The highlight of the PA’s stellar performance was its championship win in the Carbine category where it also won the perpetual trophy. The PA team also earned first place in the Women's Pistol event, surpassing the Thailand and Myanmar teams which respectively placed first runner-up and second runner-up. In the Machine Gun and Rifle categories, the PA team outgunned strong competitors, highlighting the PA shooters' proficiency in diverse weapon systems. In addition to its championship wins, the PA team secured a commendable 2nd runner-up finish in the Men's Pistol category.

The AARM is an annual event that fosters camaraderie and excellence among the armies of ASEAN member states. This year’s competition wrapped up today, November 22, 2024, and brought together the region's finest and top gun sharpshooters. As the host of this year's competition, the Philippine Army takes pride in ensuring the competition’s success, providing a platform for ASEAN armies to exchange expertise and deepen ties.

ASEAN Armies' top gun sharpshooters team up

By OACPA
November 21, 2024

FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City – The annual ASEAN Armies Rifle Meet (AARM) served as a new platform for strengthening ties among the participating ASEAN shooting teams. The pairing of sharpshooters from two countries paved the way for an exciting series of friendly competitions at the Marksmanship Training Facility, Camp O’Donnell, Capas, Tarlac on November 19, 2024.

The Philippines and Cambodian contingents teamed under the banner of Team "Narra", Myanmar and Vietnam contingents teamed up for Team "Yakal", Malaysian and Singapore contingents joined forces for Team "Magkuno", Indonesia and Laos contingents partnered for Team "Kamagong", while Thailand and Brunei contingents combined their expertise for Team "Lauan".

The five teams, named after Philippine indigenous trees, competed in various categories of the “Modified Falling Plates Relay.” Team Narra dominated the Rifle, Pistol Men’s, and Pistol Women’s categories, Team Kamagong ruled the Carbine category, while Team Magkuno clinched the championship in the Machine Gun category.

This unique mixed-countries arrangement demonstrated how cooperation transcends national borders with sharpshooters from partner teams sharing tactics, celebrating victories, and exchanging valuable skills.

Bannering the theme “Strengthening Partnership and Camaraderie towards Regional Stability”, the 32nd edition of AARM highlights the importance of strong cooperation in maintaining stability across Southeast Asia. The friendly matches concluded with an awarding ceremony where combined teams were recognized not just for their performance but for showcasing esprit de corps.

481 agrarian beneficiaries in N. Samar receive e-titles

By JOSE ALSMITH L. SORIA
November 19, 2024

VICTORIA, Northern Samar – Four hundred eighty-one agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) from different parts of this province received their individual Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs) from the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) on Tuesday, November 12 this year.

DAR Assistant Secretary for External Affairs and Communications Operations Office, Rodolfo Castil Jr., led the distribution of the 592 electronically generated titles (e-titles) covering an aggregate area of 865.6872 hectares of farm lands. Castil explained that the e-titles were generated under the World Bank-assisted Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (SPLIT) project after subdividing collective CLOAs previously issued to ARBs. SPLIT project subdivides lands covered by collective CLOAs to improve land tenure security and strengthen property rights of ARBs.

In his message, Castil told the recipients of the individual titles, “Patunay po ito na ang ating pangulo, si President Bongbong Marcos, ay committed na mabigyan kayo ng magandang kabuhayan.”

He also advised the beneficiaries to take care of the lands awarded to them under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP), “Nang sa ganun meron mamamana ang inyong mga anak, mga apo, mga apo sa apo,” said Castil.

DAR Eastern Visayas Regional Director Robert Anthony Yu assisted Castil in the distribution of e-titles at the Stardome in this town, which is about 58 kilometers away from the provincial capital. He disclosed that the lands covered by the e-titles are situated in the towns of Bobon, Capul, Victoria, San Antonio and Gamay.

Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez, chairman of the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC), joined Castil and Yu in the distribution rite.

Romualdez shared he was appointed RPOC chairman by the President “dahil sabi nya sa akin, mayor, make sure that this happen, na magkaroon ng titulo ang mga taga Region 8, lalo na sa Islang Samar.”

According to him, “Hiningi din ni President nung magmeeting kami with then 8ID head, General Ligayo, siguraduhin nyo na hindi aagawin sa kanila at walang kukuha ng mga lupa nila dahil para sa kanila yan.”

Land distribution is DAR’s contribution to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC), a whole-of-nation approach to address insurgency in the country.

Meanwhile, Viviana Carmen, 50, a former tenant, and one of the e-title recipients, expressed gratitude to the President and to agrarian reform secretary, Conrado Estrella III. Carmen said, they need not give share to the former landowners anymore. They can use the money in buying their daily needs and in sending their children to school.

On the same occasion, Castil turned over to the local government unit of Catarman a check worth P20-million for the concreting of Barangay Cag-abaca-Barangay San Julian farm-to-market road.

4 high-powered firearms seized; Communist-Terrorist captured in Northern Samar clashes

By DPAO, 8ID PA
November 19, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – A member of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) was captured during a focused military operation conducted by the 52nd Infantry Battalion (52IB) in the hinterlands of Barangay Malidong, Gamay, Northern Samar, on November 18, 2024.

The operation was launched after a concerned citizen reported the sightings of CTGs armed with firearms conducting extortion activities in the community following an earlier encounter on November 12. The troops apprehended the individual, identified as alias "Ahon," the Vice Squad Leader of the Regional Guerrilla Unit (RGU) under the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC). The firearm in his possession was also seized.

In a separate operation, the 20th Infantry Battalion (20IB) encountered approximately 10 CTG members while conducting focused military operations in Barangay C.M. Recto, Catubig, Northern Samar. The clash resulted in the seizure of three high-powered firearms, assorted ammunition, medical paraphernalia, and personal belongings.

Lt. Col. Richard P. Villaflor commended the troops for their dedication and swift action that forced the CTGs to retreat.

"This incident reaffirms our resolve to dismantle threats to peace and urges remaining CTG members to lay down their arms and embrace the government's reintegration programs. Together, let us build a peaceful and progressive Northern Samar," Lt. Col. Villaflor said.

Major General Adonis Ariel Orio, Commander of the 8th Infantry Division, lauded the troops for their successful operations, emphasizing the crucial role of civilian cooperation in addressing insurgency in the region.

"The information given by the people in maintaining peace and order plays a vital role in the success of every military operation. We will remain steadfast in our mandate to put an end to the atrocities and criminal acts of these groups. Rest assured, we will pursue them until their total defeat," Maj. Gen. Orio emphasized.

He also encouraged the remaining members of the CTG to avail the Amnesty program to end conflicts and have a second chance to live peacefully in the pursuit of productive endeavors.

The Philippine Government has an existing amnesty program for current members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) under the National Amnesty Commission (NAC) which was established by Executive Order No. 125 series of 2021, as amended by EO 47 of 2023. Amnesty can extinguish criminal liability for acts committed by the grantee but they may still be liable for civil damages caused to private individuals.

Groundbreaking ceremony held for multi-purpose building in Catbalogan City, Samar

By MARK ERROLD G. PABUA
November 18, 2024

CATBALOGAN CITY – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Samar 2nd District Engineering Office (DEO), headed by District Engineer Herminio V. Gulmatico, participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for a much-anticipated Multi-Purpose Building (MPB) on November 18, 2024.

The new facility located in Brgy. Lagundi will serve the Catbalogan City Community College (CCCC) and will mark a significant step forward in enhancing the educational and communal infrastructure of the city.

Key officials from CCCC attended the event including President Dr. Nigel L. Cornelius and Vice President for Academic Affairs Ms. Sharmaine S. Jabonero. Hon. Dexter M. Uy, City Mayor of Catbalogan, graced the occasion along with the “Little Mayor,” Hon. Clyde Lobres, serving as Officer of the Day.

During the ceremony also welcomed were Engr. Lucy Francisco, OIC City Engineer, representatives from the contractor, and DPWH Samar 2nd DEO personnel. Their collective presence underscored the strong collaboration between the local government, the academe, and DPWH.

The Multi-Purpose Building aims to address the needs of CCCC while benefiting the broader community. Construction is set to commence immediately with stakeholders optimistic about the project’s timely completion and its role in driving progress and development in Catbalogan City.

This initiative showcases the commitment of DPWH and its partners to improving infrastructure and fostering opportunities for growth in Samar.

Philippine Army Chief receives the U.S. Legion of Merit Medal

By OACPA
November 13, 2024

FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City – The Commanding General, Philippine Army (CGPA) Lt. Gen. Roy M. Galido received the U.S. Legion of Merit (Degree of Commander) Medal for his vital role in enhancing Philippine-U.S. (PH-US) defense ties in a conferment ceremony held in Washington D.C., U.S.A. on November 11, 2024.

The U.S. Legion of Merit award highlights Lt. Gen. Galido’s exemplary efforts to enhance PH-US defense ties and advance military objectives amid the fast-changing Indo-Pacific security landscape. The said award is one of the highest honors conferred by the U.S. Department of the Army to American servicemen, and political and military leaders of allied nations.

Lt. Gen. Galido, who took the helm of the Philippine Army on August 2023, “spearheaded the Army modernization efforts to select, procure and integrate several critical, technologically advanced capabilities and ensured his soldiers maintained the edge required to respond to threats, deter adversaries and interoperate with multination forces to defeat any foe,” the Legion of Merit citation read.

The Army Chief has always emphasized the importance of large-scale training exercises evident during the conduct of the first-ever Army-wide Combined Arms Training Exercise (CATEX) "Katihan" early this year and in engaging the U.S. Army in a series of high-impact combined and joint bilateral exercises such as "Salaknib" and "Balikatan" as part of the Army's strategic shift to territorial defense operations from internal security.