DPWH Samar 2nd DEO
meets with DENR to discuss Basey-Maydolong project

By
MARK ERROLD G. PABUA
January 23, 2025
CATBALOGAN CITY –
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Samar 2nd
District Engineering Office, led by District Engineer Herminio V.
Gulmatico, held a productive meeting with personnel from the
Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) at the Aviore
Hotel in Tacloban City. The event was organized by Assistant
Regional Director (ARD) for Operations Angelito Villanueva, formerly
the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO)
stationed in Catbalogan City.
The meeting focused on
addressing the key components and environmental considerations of
the Basey-Maydolong Project, a significant undertaking of the DPWH
Samar 2nd DEO aimed at improving connectivity and fostering
development in the region.
District Engineer
Gulmatico extended his gratitude to DENR for their invaluable
contributions and for providing resolutions to various environmental
impacts associated with the project. The collaboration highlights
the strong partnership between DPWH and DENR in ensuring that
infrastructure development aligns with environmental sustainability
and regulatory compliance.
The discussions
underscored the commitment of both agencies to balance development
and environmental preservation, ensuring that the Basey-Maydolong
Project delivers benefits to local communities while minimizing
ecological disruptions.
This meeting marks another
milestone in the ongoing efforts to deliver sustainable
infrastructure projects, exemplifying the dedication of government
agencies to serve the public effectively.
8ID units receives
awards for dismantling Communist Terrorist Groups in EV

By
DPAO, 8ID PA
January 22, 2025
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – The Visayas Command (VisCom), Armed Forces of the
Philippines (AFP) has conferred the AFP Campaign Streamer Awards to
the two Infantry Brigades, three Battalions and former Operational
Control (OPCON) Unit of 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division after
successfully dismantling Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) in
Eastern Visayas.
The awards was given to
the units during the Command Conference held at Headquarters VisCom,
Camp Lapu-Lapu, Cebu City on January 22, 2025.
Lieutenant General
Fernando Reyeg, the Commander of VisCom together with 8th Infantry
Division Commander, Major General Adonis Ariel Orio and Deputy
Commander VisCom, Commodore Oscar Canlas Jr., conferred the award.
The awardees are the 801st
Infantry Brigade and 42nd Infantry Battalion, a former OPCON unit of
8ID, for dismantling the ELCON Platoon, Sub-Regional Committee (SRC),
Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC).
The 802nd Infantry Brigade
was also awarded for dismantling the Sub-Regional Guerilla Unit (SRGU)
Bugsok, SRC SESAME of the EVRPC, the Apoy Platoon and Platoon 2,
Island Committee (IC) 47 LEVOX, EVRPC.
The 63rd Infantry
Battalion for dismantling the SRGU Bugsok, SRC SESAME, EVRPC.
The 78th Infantry
Battalion for dismantling the Apoy Platoon, SRC SESAME, EVRPC and
the 93rd Infantry Battalion for dismantling the Platoon 2, IC 47
LEVOX.
Maj.Gen. Orio, lauded the
awardee units for their exemplary service in dismantling the CTGs
that greatly contributed in the campaign of ending local communist
armed conflict in Eastern Visayas.
"These awards is a
testament of your dedication and exemplary service. Your
accomplishment of dismantling these Communist Terrorist Groups have
been vital in our goal of attaining a peaceful and progressive
community for the people of Eastern Visayas," Maj.Gen. Orio
expressed.
Maj.Gen. Orio also
encouraged the troops to continue their efforts and sustain the
gains against the remaining insurgents.
"We are almost there, so,
let us continue our efforts and sustain our gains against these
Communist Terrorist Groups, the people relies on us," Maj. Gen. Orio
added.
This recognition
underscores the ongoing efforts of 8th Infantry Division in
combating insurgency and promoting stability in the region.
DPWH Samar 2nd DEO
completes construction of Calbiga Flood Control Project

By
MARK ERROLD G. PABUA
January 22, 2025
CATBALOGAN CITY –
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Samar 2nd
District Engineering Office proudly announces the completion of the
Calbiga Flood Control Project, located along the Calbiga River in
Calbiga, Samar.
Funded through the General
Appropriations Act (GAA) 2024, the project was completed at a cost
of P96,748,541.63. The structure spans 277.9 meters in length, with
a 3-meter easement width and a 2.7-meter height, providing vital
flood mitigation benefits to the local community.
This initiative is a
significant step toward protecting Calbiga’s residents, agricultural
areas, and infrastructure from the adverse impacts of flooding. The
flood control system underscores the government’s commitment to
disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation.
The DPWH Samar 2nd
District Engineering Office, under the leadership of District
Engineer Herminio V. Gulmatico, commends the teamwork and dedication
of everyone involved in the successful implementation of the
project.
PSA Leyte resumes
full-swing National ID registration to accelerate province-wide
registration progress

PSA
Leyte registration personnel assist registrants during the
National ID registration process, ensuring a smooth and
friendly experience, reflecting the PSA’s commitment to
reaching communities across Leyte. |
By
PSA-8
January 21, 2025
TACLOBAN CITY – The
Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Leyte, through its dedicated
registration personnel, has resumed the full-scale implementation of
the National ID registration on January 20, 2025. This initiative is
part of the government’s continued commitment to provide every
Filipino with a unified and reliable identification system under the
National Identification System.
During the Online
Refresher Training for the National ID Frontline Services last 16-17
January 2025, which was attended by newly-hired registration
personnel, PSA Leyte's Chief Statistical Specialist, Sheryl Ann A.
Jamisola, highlighted the importance of the National ID in
simplifying both public and private transactions, improving access
to social services, and fostering financial inclusion."The National
ID serves as a powerful tool for empowering individuals and ensuring
that no one is left behind," CSS Jamisola stated during the online
training.
Registration centers
across Leyte are now fully equipped and ready to efficiently and
safely accommodate registrants. The PSA Leyte guarantees that strict
health protocols are being implemented to protect both personnel and
registrants, particularly children, senior citizens, persons with
disabilities (PWDs), and other vulnerable groups. Details about the
exact locations and schedules of registration venues are
consistently shared with Local Government Units (LGUs) and Barangay
units to keep the public informed.
Citizens are encouraged to
visit their nearest registration center with the necessary
documents, such as a valid government-issued ID or a birth
certificate, to complete their registration process. Mobile
registration units were also deployed to remote and underserved
areas, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all sectors of the
population. PSA Leyte calls on all eligible residents of Leyte to
take advantage of this opportunity to register for their National
ID.
Moreover, our office also
offers services for National ID Institutional Registration, ensuring
that organizations and institutions can facilitate the registration
of their members, employees, or affiliates for the National
Identification System. By extending institutional registration
services, PSA Leyte enhances accessibility for individuals who may
face challenges in visiting registration centers, fostering broader
participation in the National ID program. This initiative
underscores the importance of inclusivity and convenience in the
National ID registration process.
The National
Identification System aims to provide a seamless, secure, and
universally accepted identification system for every Filipino,
reinforcing the country’s drive towards digital transformation and
inclusive development.
International Airborne
leaders discuss comprehensive partnerships anew

Airborne
Commanders from participating Indo-Pacific nations engage in
discussions during the International Airborne Commanders
Conference on January 10, 2025 at the 1st Airborne Brigade,
Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF), Camp Narashino,
Chiba Prefecture, Japan. |
By
OACPA
January 17, 2025
FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig
City – Airborne Commanders from the participating Indo-Pacific
countries gathered for the International Airborne Commanders
Conference (IACC) held at the 1st Airborne Brigade, Japan Ground
Self-Defense Force (JGSDF), Camp Narashino, Chiba Prefecture, Japan
on January 10, 2025.
The Philippine Army
delegates, led by Vice Commander Philippine Army Maj. Gen. Leodevic
Guinid and Special Forces Regiment (Airborne) Commander Brig. Gen.
Rosendo Abad Jr., joined the delegates from allied countries to
discuss strategic plans and exchange relevant information in
response to the emerging threats in the region. The conference also
served as the avenue for initiating talks on establishing more and
enhanced comprehensive cooperation and military-to-military
agreements between the Indo-Pacific nations.
The 1st Airborne Brigade,
JGSDF also simultaneously held the International Airborne Chief
Sergeants Major Conference and facilitated the exchange of
information regarding human resource development, leader-subordinate
relations, Non-Commissioned Officers' (NCO) empowerment, and
training of the NCOs from the allied countries.
The conferences are part
of the significant activities in the New Year Jump in Indo-Pacific
2025 and served as the opportunity to foster collaborations among
the participating nations before the conduct of airborne jump
demonstrations and technical exchanges on January 12.
BotiCARD opens its 24th
Branch in Biñan City

(From
L-R) Father Efren Montoya, BotiCARD President Rosenda Aquino,
Micoinsurance Coordinator Elvira De Guzman, CARD MRI
Managing Director Aristeo Dequito, and BotiCARD Operations
Director Florife Reynido led the opening of the BotiCARD
Branch in Biñan, Laguna. |
By
JOSEPHINE RAMOS
January 17, 2025
SAN PABLO CITY –
BotiCARD opened its newest branch in Biñan City, Laguna, on January
8, 2025, to bring high-quality, affordable medicines closer to more
Filipinos.
By establishing a presence
in Biñan, the pharmacy reaffirmed its commitment to making essential
healthcare accessible, providing more affordable alternatives, and
delivering health education to the community.
BotiCARD President Rosenda
Aquino expressed the pharmacy’s dedication to reaching more
communities, particularly those living on the margins. “We believe
that expanding our services across the country and improving
people’s health is another way to support CARD MRI’s mission of
eradicating poverty," she stated.
As part of the
celebration, BotiCARD offered free consultations, blood pressure
monitoring, and dental extractions to clients and the general public
who attended the event. In addition, the pharmacy provided a 28%
discount on selected medicines and vitamins.
During the opening, 109
individuals benefited from the free medical services.
Aside from medicines,
BotiCARD offers basic medical supplies, hygiene products, and other
essential health products.
BotiCARD, the health wing
of CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI), was
established in 2011 to ensure the availability of affordable and
quality medicines to CARD members, their families, and communities.
42IB receives awards
for dismantling Communist Terrorists Group in Eastern Visayas

By
DPAO, 8ID PA
January 17, 2025
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – The 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division of the Philippine
Army has recognized the significant contributions of the 42nd
Infantry “Tagapagtanggol” Battalion of the 9th Infantry Division
which served as an Operational Control (OPCON) Unit of 8ID, in the
fight against the insurgents in Eastern Visayas, in a send-off
ceremony held at the Headquarters Tactical Operations Group (TOG) 8,
Philippine Air Force in Tacloban City on January 16, 2025.
For almost two years of being an OPCON unit of 8ID, 42IB’s efforts
and accomplishments has delivered a decisive blow in the ranks of
the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) in the province of Eastern
Samar.
One of its notable accomplishments was the successful dismantling of
the ELCON Platoon of the Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Browser of the
Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) operating in the
provinces of Samar and Eastern Samar on March 3, 2023 and the
recovery of assorted high-powered firearms and the capture or
surrender of CTG personalities.
After its successful operations and contributing to 8ID towards
greater heights against the insurgents in Eastern Visayas, the 42IB
will now be returning to 9th Infantry Division in the Bicol
province.
Major General Adonis Ariel Orio, the Commander of the Joint Task
Force Storm and the 8th Infantry Division, spearheaded the send-off
ceremony of the 42IB where he awarded the Meritorious Merit Medal (MMM)
and the Command Plaque as recognition for the unit’s significant
accomplishments and contributions in the pursuit of ending local
communist armed conflict in the region.
In his message, Maj. Gen. Orio expressed his gratitude to 42IB for
their unwavering commitment to their shared mission of achieving
peace, stability and progress for the people of Eastern Visayas.
“Through your tireless Community Support Operations and Mobile
Community Support Sustainment Operations, you did more than
neutralize threats and recover firearms – you brought hope and
security to communities that longed for peace. Your efforts have
strengthened the foundation of long-lasting peace and sustainable
development for the people of Eastern Visayas,” Major General Orio
said.
Maj. Gen. Orio also encouraged the troops to carry the lessons and
experiences they have gained in 8ID.
“May you continue to serve with pride, passion, and purpose. Never
forget the ripples of change and peace you have created – they will be
felt for generations to come, Maj. Gen. Orio added.
NMP receives
significant budget boost to empower Filipino seafarers

Press Release
January 16, 2025
TACLOBAN CITY – The
National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) has received a significant
budget increase in the recently approved FY 2025 General
Appropriations Act (GAA). Of the P8.081 billion allocated to the
Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), P224.602 million (excluding
Retirement and Life Insurance Premium) has been earmarked for NMP,
representing a 23.39% increase (P42.580 million) compared to the FY
2024 budget.
Furthermore, NMP has also
been allocated P66 million under the Department of Public Works and
Highways (DPWH) budget for infrastructure projects to enhance
training facilities and overall campus infrastructure.
The increased funding will
enable NMP to upgrade its information and communication technology (ICT)
infrastructure, conduct a feasibility study for its proposed
expansion in Luzon, and acquire essential training equipment such as
maritime simulators, personal protective equipment (PPEs), and motor
vehicles.
NMP Executive Director
Victor A. Del Rosario expressed his gratitude, stating, "We deeply
appreciate the government's steadfast support in securing a
responsive budget cover for FY 2025. This significant financial
backing enables us to enhance our training facilities, expand our
capabilities, and provide quality training and research services to
our seafarers. On behalf of the NMP, we thank the Department of
Migrant Workers (DMW) led by Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac, House
Speaker Martin G. Romualdez, Cong. Jude A. Acidre, Chairperson of
the Committee on Overseas Affairs of the House Representatives, and
all stakeholders who have recognized and supported our vital role in
the maritime sector."
This funding boost
underscores the government's commitment to supporting Filipino
seafarers, whose remittances significantly contribute to the
national economy. With the increased funding, NMP is well-positioned
to elevate its services, strengthen the maritime workforce, and
contribute more significantly to the maritime industry.
2nd Regional Joint
Security Control Center convenes to ensure peaceful midterm National
and Local Elections 2025

By
DPAO, 8ID PA
January 16, 2025
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – The 8th Infantry "Stormtroopers" Division of the
Philippine Army, in collaboration with the Philippine Coast Guard
Eastern Visayas, the Police Regional Office 8 (PRO 8), the Bureau of
Fire Protection Region 8 (BFP Region 8), and the Commission on
Elections (COMELEC) Region 8, convened the 2nd Regional Joint
Security Control Center (RJSCC) Conference on January 15, 2025, at
Abanador Hall, Camp Vicente Lukban, Catbalogan City, Samar.
The conference focused on
reviewing joint operational guidelines and strategies aimed at
enhancing security measures, streamlining communication, and
addressing potential challenges that may arise during the election
period. This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of all
agencies involved to safeguard the integrity of the electoral
process and ensure voter safety.
Key officials present
included Commodore Elgene Gregorio, Assistant District Commander of
the Coast Guard District Eastern Visayas; Police Brigadier General
Jay Cumigad, Regional Director of PRO 8; Senior Superintendent Randy
Mendaros, Assistant Regional Director on Operation of BFP Region8;
Atty. Remlane Tambuang, Regional Election Director for Region 8,
COMELEC; and Major General Adonis Ariel Orio, Commander of the 8th
Infantry Division, along with other RJSCC members.
The meeting aimed to
strengthen inter-agency partnerships to guarantee the safe, orderly,
and credible conduct of the 2025 midterm elections in Eastern
Visayas.
Police Brig. Gen. Cumigad
highlighted the significance of the RJSCC in addressing gaps and
ensuring comprehensive election planning.
"We were able to address
the lacking requirements and provide an avenue for both the PNP and
AFP to effectively deploy personnel, leading to comprehensive
planning for the midterm elections," he stated.
He emphasized that the
RJSCC serves as a vital platform for aligning strategies, assessing
preparedness, and enhancing security measures to ensure peaceful and
orderly elections.
Atty. Tambuang underscored
the essential role of partnerships with stakeholders, including the
AFP, PNP, and PCG, in maintaining peace and security during the
elections.
"The Commission on
Elections cannot achieve this alone. We need the support of all
stakeholders to ensure peace and security in our area, allowing
people to leave their homes and vote freely on election day," Atty.
Tambuang remarked.
He called for
collaboration across all sectors, emphasizing the importance of
societal encouragement to foster a secure and credible electoral
process.
Maj. Gen. Orio reiterated
the Philippine Army's commitment to protecting the sanctity of the
electoral process.
"This is our mandate for
the upcoming elections. We are ready to help ensure the success of
this democratic exercise," Maj. Gen. Orio stated.
He further emphasized the
Army's readiness to address challenges, enforce security protocols,
and prevent disruptions that could compromise the integrity of the
elections.
The strong participation
and collective resolve demonstrated during the 2nd RJSCC Conference
reflect the unwavering commitment of JTF Storm, the Philippine Army,
and partner agencies in ensuring stability, fostering trust, and
guaranteeing a peaceful election in Eastern Visayas.
Communist Terrorist
Group in Eastern Visayas weakens further; Arms cache unearthed in Leyte

By
DPAO, 8ID PA
January 14, 2025
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – Joint troops from the 14th Infantry "Avenger" Battalion
and the 93rd Infantry "Bantay Kapayapaan" Battalion of the 8th
Infantry "Stormtroopers" Division, Philippine Army, discovered an
arms cache in the hinterlands of Barangay Mahilum, Hindang, Leyte,
on January 11, 2025.
The cache contained an M60
machine gun, an M16 rifle, and an M14 rifle, marking another
significant blow to the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Eastern
Visayas.
This success is attributed
to the Philippine Army's continued implementation of key programs
that have encouraged CTG members to surrender and weakened the
group's operational capabilities.
Earlier this year, the
802nd Infantry Brigade launched Project LEVOX (Living a Life that
Embraces Peace and Development through Values and Reconciliation
that will Overcome Fear, Hatred, and Expand the Culture of Peace).
The program has played a pivotal role in locating remaining CTG
members and dismantling their influence in the region.
In addition, the FReE
Families Program actively engages the families and friends of CTG
members, urging their surrender and providing pathways for
reintegration into society.
Since January 2024, troops
from the 8th Infantry Division (8ID) have participated in 93 armed
encounters across Eastern Visayas. These operations have resulted in
the neutralization of 41 CTG members, including two high-value
individuals and six key leaders. Troops also recovered 75 firearms,
48 antipersonnel mines (prohibited under International Humanitarian
Law), and seized 143 NPA lairs, along with additional weapons and
arms caches.
Brigadier General Noel A.
Vestuir, Commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade, credited the
success to former members of CTG who shared crucial information
under Project LEVOX.
"The families of our
Friends Rescued (FRs) have shown their commitment to support our
efforts to end the local communist armed conflict. Their
encouragement for loved ones to cooperate with the government is a
testament to the trust and confidence inspired by our FReE Families
Program," Brig. Gen. Vestuir said.
Meanwhile, Major General
Adonis Ariel G. Orio, Commander of the 8th Infantry Division,
praised the ongoing efforts to address insurgency in the region.
"This achievement
underscores our progress in eradicating insurgency and dismantling
its networks. We remain steadfast in our mission to deliver lasting
peace to Region 8. The people deserve to live without fear, and we
are committed to making this a reality," Maj. Gen. Orio stated.
He further urged remaining
CTG members to surrender.
"I call on all remaining
CTG members to lay down your arms. The government is prepared to
help you reintegrate into society and address your concerns.
Together, we can build a peaceful and prosperous future," he added.