H E A D Q U A R T E R S

8^TH INFANTRY DIVISION, PHILIPPINE ARMY

8^th Civil Military Operations (Dangpanan) Battalion

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan Samar

P R E S S R E L E A S E

October 4, 2010

Contact: LTC NOEL A VESTUIR OS (GSC) PA

Commanding Officer

Tel. No.: (053) 251-2264/251-2199 loc 3333 or 3144

E-mail Add: dpao_8idpa@yahoo.com

Tips from Civilian Populace, Leads the Recovery of high powered firearms

Camp Lukban, Maulong Catbalogan Samar- The troops of Bravo Company, 34^th Infantry Battalion of the 8^th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, under 1Lt. Franchild Dusil while conducting security operations at Brgy Bahay, Sta. Margarita, Samar apprehended one person possessing high powered firearms this morning, October 4, 2010, at 5:30 am.

In a report from Lieutenant Colonel William P Penafiel Jr, Commanding Officer of the 34^th Infantry Battalion based in San Jose de Buan, Samar, while his troops were conducting security operations in pursuance to the COMELEC/AFP/PNP Memorandum Of Agreement (MOA) against illegal possession of firearms, a civilian in the nearby barangays tipped in an information regarding presence of armed men in the area. As troops reacted on the report, they were able to apprehend a certain Emilio E. Casaljay, 31 years old, resident of Brgy. Monbon, Sta. Margarita Samar. Recovered from his possession are one M653 (baby armalite) with serial number 975565, seven magazines and 130 rounds of ammunition. Based on the coordination with the Samar PNP, the subject is an escapee form the provincial jail and has a standing warrant of arrest. Appropriate charges of illegal possession of firearms in connection with the COMELEC gun ban is now being filed against the subject. 1Lt. Dusil conducted dialogue to the populace of Brgy. Bahay, Sta Margarita Samar, expressing his thanks for their timely information leading to the apprehension of the said fugitive.

Meanwhile, Maj Gen. Mario F Chan, Commander of 8^th Infantry Division Philippine Army assured the people that the 8ID will continue to assist the PNP to preempt election related violence to happen this coming local election.######

H E A D Q U A R T E R S

8^TH INFANTRY DIVISION, PHILIPPINE ARMY

8^th Civil Military Operations (Dangpanan)Battalion

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan Samar

P R E S S R E L E A S E

October 1, 2010

Contact: LTC NOEL A VESTUIR OS (GSC) PA

Commanding Officer

Tel. No.: (053) 251-2264/251-2199 loc 3333 or 3144

E-mail Add: dpao_8idpa@yahoo.com

8ID hails 235 new breed of soldiers

Camp Lukban, Maulong Catbalogan Samar- The Army’s 8^th Infantry Division once again conducted a simple but meaningful closing ceremony of Jungle Warfare and Mountain Operation Course Class 02-2010 with Entrustment of FireArms Ceremony which was jointly graced by Maj. Gen Mario F Chan, Commander 8ID and Honorable Sharee Ann T. Delos Santos, Governor of Samar, as Keynote Speakers held at the 8ID grandstand this morning, at 9:00 am.

Said ceremony was witnessed by personalities from various Local Government Units and Agencies and Non Government Organizations, parents, relatives and friends of the newly enlisted Privates and different tri-media practitioners of Samar and Leyte.

Out of the original 250 Candidate Soldiers, only 239 have successfully completed the Candidate Soldier Course, six of them did not cope up with the rigors of the training.

The Candidate Soldier Course opened last May 13, 2010 with 250 qualified applicants from all walks of life that came from all over the country to undergo 3 months basic military training. After their basic training, they underwent Jungle Warfare and Mountain Operation Course (JWMOC) which has duration of six weeks.

During the ceremonial entrustment of firearms, Gov. Delos Santos presented the Firearms as a symbol of entrusting the Samareños to the new breed of soldiers as the guardians of peace and protectors of the people. The firearms that were accepted by the Privates will serve as their primary instrument in the performance of their tasks and signify their enduring commitment to the noble profession of arms.

On the other hand, Maj. Gen Mario F. Chan in his message, cited the ten rules of engagement which are; Obey legal orders of your lawful superiors, Wear snappy uniform, Speak politely, Respect women, children and the elderly, Pay for whatever you buy and return whatever you borrowed, Do not be arrogant, Do not destroy crops, Do not look or keep spoils of war for personal interests, Do not maltreat prisoners and Do not violate human rights, “I’ll be making sure that these guys will be the one to give us the energy in the 8^th Infantry Division in particular and, the Armed Forces in General. I assure you that I will lead them to their best and make them a true servants of the people whom their Parents who are here today can be proud of”, Gen Chan added.

H E A D Q U A R T E R S

8^TH INFANTRY DIVISION, PHILIPPINE ARMY

8^th Civil Military Operations (Dangpanan)Battalion

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan Samar

P R E S S R E L E A S E

September 18, 2010

Contact: LTC NOEL A VESTUIR OS (GSC) PA

Commanding Officer

Tel. No.: (053) 251-2264/251-2199 loc 3333 or 3144

E-mail Add: dpao_8idpa@yahoo.com

1 NPA killed, 1 M16 rifle recovered

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan, Samar –Operating troops of Army’s 803^rd Infantry Brigade encountered more or less 30 members of the Communist Terrorist New Peoples’ Army (NPA) on September 18, at about 1:00 o’clock in the afternoon in the upstream barangays of Las Navas of Northern Samar and Matuguinao of Western Samar complex.

Report reaching this headquarters those troops of 803^rd Infantry Brigade led by 1lt Onipig while conducting security operation within the vicinity of the aforesaid area, a certain civilian resident gave an information about the presence of the armed men frequently seen in the outskirts of said area that caused fear to the civilian populace residing near within the area.

With the immediate response to the call of duty, troops under 1lt Onipig immediately proceeded to the alleged location of the terrorist and subsequently discovered an enemy encampment and encountered the armed group believed to be members of the NPA operating in the area.

No casualties reported on the government side while one terrorist killed and undetermined numbers of wounded as evidence of bloodstains in the route of enemy withdrawal. Recovered in the encounter site were one M16 armalite rifle, bandoleer and live ammunitions, voluminous subversive documents with high intelligence value and personal belongings of the terrorist at said encampment.

Meanwhile, Colonel Oscar Lopez, Commander of the 803^rd Infantry Brigade, based in Camp Sumoroy, Catarman Northern Samar, commended his troops for a job well done and to the undying performance to the call of duties as soldiers and guardians of peace.

On the other hand, Major General Mario F Chan, Commander of the 8^th Infantry Division based at Camp Lukban, Maulong Catbalogan, Samar, appreciated and give thanks to the continuous support of the civilian populace that brought the success not only to the “Stormtroopers” but for the Samareños as well.

He also gave a direct order to his soldiers to continue the effort in conducting Internal Security Operation in the area while observing the rights of the civilians and even the rights of the terrorists.

H E A D Q U A R T E R S

8^TH INFANTRY DIVISION, PHILIPPINE ARMY

8^th Civil Military Operations (Dangpanan)Battalion

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan Samar

P R E S S R E L E A S E

September 10, 2010

Contact: LTC NOEL A VESTUIR OS (GSC) PA

Commanding Officer

Tel. No.: (053) 251-2264/251-2199 loc 3333 or 3144

E-mail Add: dpao_8idpa@yahoo.com

Civilian tips results encounter

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan, Samar – The Army’s 34^th Infantry Battalion encountered some 50 armed members of the terrorist New People’s Army (NPA) in the boundaries of barangays Caranas and Hinacaan of Motiong, WSamar 5:00 a.m. this morning.

Report reaching this headquarters from 34IB disclosed that Corporal Michael Angel received a report from undisclosed civilian that armed men wearing tapita clothes are frequently seen loitering in the outskirts of said barangay. The presence of the said armed group, caused terror and uneasiness to the populace in the locality.

With the desire to address the threat brought by the said terror group and to defend the civilians, elements of 34IB conducted security patrols within the periphery of that barangay and its nearby sitios.

This resulted to an encounter between the troops and the enemy that resulted to the killing of one enemy and the recovery of a camouflage backpack and one (1) upper hand guard of M16 rifle.

One soldier was also reported to have been killed in the said encounter.

Lt. Col. William Peñafiel, 34IB’s commanding officer commended the heroism of his fallen troop and said that risking lives is just part and parcel of the military profession for the people to continuously enjoy their right to live.

“Soldiers never die, they just pass away. We will be surely missing him but his acts of courage and commitment to duty will always remain in the memories of the people he has served. We share in the sorrow felt by his family and loved ones and we will never forget his act of heroism and the invaluable contribution he made in service to our country and people”, says Lt. Col. Peñafiel.

Meanwhile, Major General Mario Chan, the 8ID’s head, expressed his appreciation to the concerned individuals and civilian who relentlessly supported the efforts of their Army to ultimately attain peace and development in the province.

He further directed the troops to continuously pursue the fleeing enemy in order to fully to liberate the area from the LTs influence that would pave the way for the attainment of the lasting peace and development. ###

H E A D Q U A R T E R S
8^TH INFANTRY DIVISION, PHILIPPINE ARMY
OFFICE OF THE DIVISION PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Camp Lukban, Catbalogan Samar

P R E S S R E L E A S E

March 18, 2010

Contact: LT COL ARMAND F RICO
Spokesperson/ Chief, Public Affairs
Tel. No.: (053) 251-2264/251-2199 loc 3333
E-mail Add: dpao_8idpa@yahoo.com

8ID holds three major activities in one day

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City, Samar – The Army’s 8^th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division graced three major activities in one day making the whole camp busy last Tuesday, March 16.

The command hosted the Samar Partnership for Peace and Development (SPPADE) first hour of the day which was attended by all member agencies and other invited sector to discuss and to receive reports pertaining to the peace and development of the province.

The group focused mainly on how to make the forthcoming national and local election more orderly as deemed necessary and came up with decision to host a forum to be attended by the local candidates any day prior to the Election Day in the spirit of peace.

On the later part of the morning, the closing ceremony of the Philippine Army Candidate Soldier Course “MATARIK” Class of 2010 took place wherein 105 new breed of soldiers were appointed into the rank of “Private” who are readily deployable to different units of the 8ID.

The ceremony was also attended by the parents and relatives of the graduating class who are as proud as the graduates.

Meanwhile, the 8ID’s busy day was concluded by the opening ceremony of their 1^st Semester Inter-Color Sports fest.

All officers, enlisted personnel and civilian employees as well as the members of the Philippine Navy who secure the shores of Samar and Leyte.

These activities all though tiring in their part became successful and meaningful.

Major General Arthur I Tabaquero, the commander of the 8ID made it possible to present himself and even delivered his words of welcome and encouragement to the respective activities.

“The 8ID family will always make balance of its work towards its mission accomplishment and upholding the troop’s morale”, Major General Tabaquero said stating the command’s activities from morning till dusk.

“Sometimes, we have to give time for sports and other recreational activities despite of rigid and hectic endeavor towards our mission in order to stretch a while and prepare ourselves for another succeeding days of work”, the good General added with a bit of smile on his face despite of tiring but successful day in his camp.

H E A D Q U A R T E R S
8^TH INFANTRY DIVISION, PHILIPPINE ARMY
OFFICE OF THE DIVISION PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Camp Lukban, Catbalogan Samar

P R E S S R E L E A S E

March 15, 2010

Contact: LT COL ARMAND F RICO
Spokesperson/ Chief, Public Affairs
Tel. No.: (053) 251-2264/251-2199 loc 3333
E-mail Add: dpao_8idpa@yahoo.com

Barbaric NPA beheads Brgy. Captain

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City – “Evil strikes back!”, are few but angry words from the victim’s bereaved family referring to the New People’s Army (NPA) for slaying and beheading their head of the family at Brgy. Genaronagan, Lope de Vega, Northern Samar the other day.

Initial reports disclosed that Hon. Luis Durico, Brgy Chairman of the mentioned barangay was brutally killed by notorious NPA led by unidentified leader using assorted high powered fire arms while on his way going home from a barangay session meeting.

Not contented with their brutality, the victim’s dead body was dragged towards the center of barangay and with the presence of his family and constituents, was beheaded to sow terror with them.

It is also worthy to note that the victim was a former rebel and allegedly being re-recruited by his former comrade but never showed any interest after re-experiencing the social life in the full folds of the law. This is one of the reasons his constituents see why the terrorists finished their so called “father of barangay.”

It can be recalled that similar incident transpired at Brgy. Sta. Cruz, Matuguinao, Samar early this year when Arman Diaz of Brgy Madoroto, Matuginao, Samar was shot dead by five unidentified members of NPA and also dragged its dead body towards the center of barangay plaza to exhibit with the populace.

Moreover, a certain Ka Dayokdok, former rebel who returned to the mainstream society revealed that the former group he previously belongs was responsible for killing and beheading a 13 year old girl that was also exhibited in the masses of San Jose de Buan for suspecting to be providing reports to the military without further investigation.

This incident is no longer new in the underground movement since it was being condemned internationally for relentlessly violating human rights.

Who will forget their nationwide anti-DPA campaign dubbed as, “Oplan Kadena de Amor, Missing-Link, Ahos-Zombie, Purga, Paglilinis-hanay, etc.” as a result of their “Kangaroo Court” butchering thousands of innocent member-victim?

Who can’t recall the famous bloody “Digos Massacre” that came out to the public knowledge slaughtering even innocent children and beheading the UCCP pastor?

Roberto Gacuma a.k.a Ka Huling, the former top rank NPA official of Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) that was captured by the government forces sometime in 2007 has been exposing these un-Godly practices of his former comrades in most of his media interviews in order to warn those who are still being deceived by the local terrorist group.

The people of Samar are already crying for justice and seeking help to the human rights groups especially to the Katungod-Sinirangang Bisayas and other progressive groups, that still doing nothing up to press time.

“These un-Godly and barbaric acts of NPAs are no longer tolerable and must be given due attention”, cried out by his orphans.

Major General Arthur I Tabaquero, Commander 8ID said, “Let us remain steadfast in our effort to sustain peace and order in our province. Let us remain vigilant and cooperative to our different agency in order to knock down our perennial problem in the country the soonest possible time”

“May I inform our Samarnon that our task forces for peace and development are continuously exerting its effort to bring forth a secured environment that was long deprived by the insurgents in the province”, Major General Tabaquero added. ###

H E A D Q U A R T E R S

63rd Infantry (Innovator) Battalion, 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army

Brgy. Opong, Catubig, Northern Samar

8D40G                                                                    04 March 2010

PRESS RELEASE NR 14-0403

Contact: 1LT JOSEPHUS EMAR M REMPILLO (INF) PA

Public Affairs Officer/Spokesperson

E-mail add: s7_63ib@yahoo.com

Isang Mass Grave, Nadiskubre

Mondragon, Hilagang Samar: Isang Mass grave ang nadiskubre ng mga operatiba ng 63^rd Infantry (Innovator) Battalion, Philippine Army sa pamumuno ni Tsg Cornelio Laure at Cpl Leoncio P Miranda bandang alas singko y medya, Ika 04 ng marso taong kasualukuyan malapit sa barangay cajecsan, Mondragon, Hilagang Samar..

Ang nabanggit na mass grave ay itinuro ng isang sibilyan sa mga kasundaluhan ng 63IB. ayon sa kanya, dito raw inilibing ng mga rebeldeng NPA ang mga dating kasamahan na napaghinalaang mga impormante ng militar at dahil na rin sa utos ng mga pinuno bilang pagsunod sa operation “Missing-Link” ng CPP/NPA dalawampung taon na ang nakalilipas..

Sa kasalukuyan, may apat na na mga bangkay ang nahuhukay ng pinagsanib na pwersa ng 63IB at mga residente barangay Cajecan ng Bayan ng Mondragon.

Patuloy pa rin ang retrieval operation na isinasagawa ng mga operatiba ng 63IB sa lugar upang mahukay pa ang iba pang mga bangkay na pinatawan ng kamatayan ng mga rebeldeng New Peoples Army.

Ayon kay ltc Joel M Paloma, ang Commanding Officer ng 63^rd IB ang kanyang pamunuan ay tutulong upang mabigyan ng katarungan ang pagpatay sa mga biktima ng Operation “Missing-Link” . ani pa niya, ito ay isa sa mga paglabag ng karapatang pantao na kung saan ay dapat mabigyan ng hustisya at mahuli ang may mga pakana nito.

Nananawagan din si ltc Paloma sa mga tao na kung may mga alam pa silang mga lugar na katulad ng nadiskubring grave site o kaya mga kampo o presensya ng mga rebeldeng NPA na ipagbigay alam agad para sa agarang pagkahuli at mabigyan ng hustisya ang mga biktima ng mga NPA. .JOSEPH/Jopal/Khajul/jigs

_________________________________________________________

Approved for Release:

LTC JOEL M PALOMA INF (GSC) PA

Commanding Officer

H E A D Q U A R T E R S

8^TH INFANTRY DIVISION, PHILIPPINE ARMY

OFFICE OF THE DIVISION PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Camp Lukban, Maulong, Catbalogan Samar

PRESS RELEASE                                                 28 February 2010

(FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE)

Contact: LTC ARMAND F RICO (CAV) PA

Office Tel Nr: (055) 251 – 2264 local 3333

Cell Phone Nr: 09167697273

Email Add: dpao_8idpa@yahoo.com

NPA rebel yields firearm re-experiences true democracy

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City, Samar – Hardship, hunger, insecurity, false hope and discouragement are just some of the numerous reasons enunciated by the former rebel after he decided to voluntarily submit himself to one of the members of the Charlie Company of the Army’s 19^th Infantry Battalion, 12:30 P.M., Friday.

Reports disclosed that Lemy Oronuz, 23 years old, known to be Joshua in the underground movement belongs to Pingkoy Platoon of the Front Committee Leyte. He is a resident of Brgy. Oguesan, Mac Arthur, Leyte and stayed in the NPA organization for reasonable years.

According to Orunuz, he can no longer withstand with the torment that he and his comrades are experiencing in the underground movement to include their long awaited realization of the promises they received when they were recruited.

Orunuz also said that his other comrades are already showing their intention to follow his footsteps of going out into the open to re-experience the true democracy that was long deprived by the party and the movement.

He also added that they are being encouraged by the testimonies of their former comrades who already availed the government’s Social Integration Program (SIP) which further negated their belief in the lies that whoever will surrender will be killed by the military.

Orunuz voluntarily submitted himself to 19IB soldier bringing along his issued M16 rifle with three (3) long and three (3) short magazines loaded with live ammunitions.

With this development, 8ID Commander, Maj. Gen. Arthur I. Tabaquero assured Orunuz of his security while his name is immediately enrolled in the SIP program.

“I personally appreciated the right move and decision done by Lemy. He is still young and he can do more with his age and correct the wrong decision in the past and can still make his future brighter”, Maj. Gen. Tabaquero added.

“I reiterate my previous call to our brothers in the underground movement whom I considered victim, to follow the good decision done by Lemy and make their future more fruitful. I also enjoin other agencies, people’s organization, local government units and cause oriented and progressive groups to share their part in our advocacy to stop insurgency that serves as the sole reason why the province’s peace and development is at stake.” Maj. Gen. Tabaquero concluded.

Brgy. Officials recover two dead bodies in a shallow grave

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City, Samar – Two (2) dead bodies were found by the brgy. Officials of Concepcion, Arteche, Eastern Samar buried in a shallow grave two days following an encounter that transpired between the terrorists and elements of Army’s 14^th Infantry Battalion in the forested area of Brgy. Dorillo, Jipapad same province.

Report disclosed that around 4:30 P.M. of February 14, while the platoon of Sgt Orosco was having their temporary patrol base in brgy. Concepcion, some brgy. Officials and tanod personally led by their Chairwoman Zedaria Pajares brought out two cadavers.Accordingly, an undisclosed folk discovered the said grave due to its strong foul scent that prompted Pajares to lead his constituents to identify and later on bury the bodies more decently.

Initial report revealed that the duo’s cause of death were gunshots base on the wounds that found all over their body.

One body suffered a wound at his right armpit while the other one is at his neck that believed to be the cause of their instant death. Official autopsy report is still being waited and the bodies’ identity is being uncovered as of press time.

It can be recalled that on the morning of February 12, troops under Staff Sergeant Pejana encountered some 10 terrorist NPAs at Brgy. Dorillo and reported that most of the rebels were wounded including the owners of their recovered M16 and M14 rifles.

This situation is no longer new to the underground movement that once their comrades were wounded in action, they drag it away from the troops and avoid it being caught for they are afraid that information can be elicited from their wounded comrades.

Lt. Col. Jaime Hidalgo, commander of 14IB already sent his troops to facilitate the burial and assist the doctors who examine the remains.

Meanwhile, the Commander of 8^th Infantry Division Maj. Gen. Arthur I Tabaquero expresses his heartfelt appreciation to the Brgy Officials who initiated the simple good deeds of bringing out the truth to the open.

“This simple deed is a clear manifestation of support to our advocacy of pursuing peace to achieve development in the whole region,” Said Tabaquero.

“I urge you to carry on your simple ways of supporting our government to encourage your fellow local officials to replicate same for us to ultimately attain our dreamt peace and development in this part of the country,” He added.

This successful feat against the terrorist NPA is the third time for this year following an encounter in Brgy. Rizal, Eastern Samar in January 13 and in Brgy Santander, Bobon, Northern in January 29 where two (2) M16 rifles, radios, war materiel, personal belongings and voluminous subversive documents with significant values were collectively recovered.

Moreover, Maj. Gen. Tabaquero calls upon the peace-loving Samarnon that should an incident occur that wounded NPAs were left in their possession by the fleeing terrorists, they should inform any nearest PNP or Army detachment to help them attend their medical needs.

“The 8ID will always be here to give these NPAs, wounded or not a chance to live freely and re-experience the fruit of democracy whenever they feel the desire to. We will give necessary medical attention the same treatment we give when we have our wounded soldiers for it is the right of the individual.” The good general concluded.

Three days after, two shallow grave sites were discovered by barangay folks 2kms away from the encounter site. The Brgy Officials of Brgy Conception headed by Byrg Kap Freddie Roncales and elements from 14IB responded on said report, together with Dr. Eduardo de Dios, MHO of Jipapad, ESamar who later conducted autopsy. The cadavers were identified as Elcon Liad (TN: Lilio Liad) @ Binal/Mila/Nilpo/Batoy and one known only as @Naval/Antoy Authorities confirmed that the duo were got killed during the earlier encounter with the elements of 14IB. Elcon Liad was further identified as the CO of Regional Security Force (RSF), EVRPC with code name: BANGKAW. Their remains were provided of decent burial at Public Cemetery of Brgy Conception, Arteche, ESamar.

14IB recovers firearms following a tip from civilian

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City, Samar – Two (2) high powered firearms were recovered by troopers from Army’s 14^th Infantry Battalion in a forested side of Brgy. Dorillo, Jipapad town of Eastern Samar after a firefight against the members of the terrorist New People’s Army (NPA) 9 A.M this morning.

Report reaching to this headquarters disclosed that while the troops under Sgt. Jessesito Pejano conducts their regular security patrol, a civilian approached and informed them that some 10 armed groups were sighted not far distant from their present location.

The undisclosed civilian also said that these armed groups are the same group who regularly collects foodstuff and extort from them.

Accordingly, after assessing the information, Pejano led his troops towards the given location and there they confirmed the civilians tip.

Firefight between the two groups commenced and lasted for about 20 minutes after the terrorist group fled dragging along their wounded comrades.

The incident resulted to the wounding of two NPA rebels leaving along their respective firearms that were recovered by the troops during their clearing in the encounter site while no reported hurt in the side of the government forces.

An M16 rifle and an M14 rifle bearing the serial number 180888 and 1264373 respectively that was recovered in the encounter are now in the possession of the 14IB and are being turned-over to the higher unit after its inspection.

Lt. Col. Jaime Hidalgo, commander of 14IB said that a pursuit and blocking operations is on progress as of press time in order to track the fleeing terrorist and let them face various criminal charges against the innocent people.

Lt. Col. Hidalgo also calls the barangays immediately surrounding the encounter site to report any wounded person that may be sighted in their area to help them provide medical attention.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Arthur I. Tabaquero lauded the troops for the successful security operations. “While we continue to perform our mandated task of preserving peace and stability in the province, we are calling to our people to intensify their usual support extended to our government in the pursuit of peace stability for the ultimate attainment of development of the whole province.

Surviving descendant graces the 8ID’s wreath laying ceremony in honor of Gen. Vicente Lukban

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City, Samar – The Army’s 8^th Infantry Division’s wreath laying ceremony in honor of Gen. Vicente Lukban yesterday morning was charmed by the surviving descendant Atty. Hubert Lucban who traveled all the way from Pambujan, Northern Samar just to add meaning with the celebration.

Atty. Lucban a practicing lawyer and the Clerk of Court in Lao-ang Municipal Trial Court traced his origin by citing some of the historical background of his great great grand father Gen. Lukban and gave his stories on why and how the Lucban is spelled either “c” or “k” in it.

He also mentioned in his eloquent speech how his great grand father became well known and greatest as he led the revolutionary in Samar and Leyte against the Americans to include one of the victorious feats of the Filipino-American war, the “Balangiga Massacre”.

Atty. Lucban conveyed his great appreciation to the men and women of the said division for giving due recognition and made the death of Gen. Lukban very significant not just because it carries the name of the late general but because of its contribution to the liberty and freedom of the province.

“I would like also to extend my sincerest gratitude for the heroism being demonstrated by the 8^th Infantry Division in performing their mission because in doing so, it just doing the same thing as the late Gen. Lukban did for this province”, he uttered.

The ceremony was also attended by all officers, enlisted men and women and civilian employees of the Division, members of the Mason Mount Huraw Lodge, Mayor Coefredo Uy of Catbalogan City and Barangay officials where the Division is nesting.

In his message read by Col. Alexander Cabales, the Assistant Division Commander of Administration, Gen. Arthur I. Tabaquero stressed out the heroism of the soldiers before that still being demonstrated by the present breed of soldiers. Gen. Tabaquero attended the internal security operations (ISO) of Bohol province to Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) during the said ceremony.

Gen. Tabaquero also encouraged his men to maintain the high standard of discipline and professionalism as they perform their mission particularly in the performance of their traditional role.

“By doing what we ought to do and by professing the spirit of duty and service, we can follow and revive the heroism that once showed by Gen. Lukban when he saw the first light in Samar and Leyte”, Gen. Tabaquero added.

Meanwhile, the said ceremony was the subsequent activity of the command following the “Unity fun run for honest, orderly and peaceful elections 2010” early morning at 5 which was hosted by the PNP.

Said fun run categorized into 3K, 1K and 500 meter run which was participated by more than 800 individuals that came from 8ID, PNP, clergies, peoples’ organizations, students, media and ROTC cadets were headed by the 8ID’s Assistant Division Commander, SPPO Provincial Director,

Signing of “Unity Manifesto” of the different participating agency culminated the said ceremony ###

8ID runs for unity and “HOPE 2010”

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City, Samar – Some 500 warmed body of the Army’s 8^th Infantry Division shared their physical agility as they joined the unity fun run hosted by the Samar Provincial Police Office, 5 A.M. yesterday morning.

The fun run bearing the theme, “Takbo ng Pinagsamang Simbahan, Sandatahang Lakas, Pambansang Pulisya ng Pilipinas, Mga Mamamahayag at mga Mag-aaral para sa Malinis, Maayos at Mapayapang Halalan 2010” aimed to advocate a united call for impartial, honest, orderly and peaceful election comes May 2010.

As one of the mandates during election period especially when deputized by the COMELEC, the 8ID ensures that the right of our people to vote is preserved and carried out without any stain from the few who have their evil personal interest.

Together with the media, students, clergies, peoples’ organization, ROTC cadets, civil societies and PNP personnel, the 8ID troopers ran 3K, 1K and 500m respectively depending on their chosen categories that started at the SPPO grounds until 8ID Grandstand after series of rounds in the command’s oval where simple program and ceremonial signing of unity manifesto was conducted.

No less than the Chief PNP P/Dir. Jesus Verzosa commended the participation of the Stormtroopers in the said endeavor.

In the message of 8ID commander, Maj. Gen. Arthur I. Tabaquero which was delivered by his Assistant Division Commander Col. Joel Ibanez, he stressed the roles of different members of societies particularly the common people who are the potent element of attaining peace and honest electoral processes. Gen. Tabaquero attended the internal security operations (ISO) of Bohol province to Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) during the event.

He also ensures the public that the Stormtroopers, will continue to assist the PNP and COMELEC not only in this coming May 2010 elections but also in the future elections to come.

“As we exercise our rights to suffrage, your soldiers in Eastern Visayas will continue to safeguard its portion for the people to at least enjoy all the freedom embodied in our constitution.” He added. ###

Farmer slain by terrorist NPA

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City – an innocent farmer was slain by the members of the notorious New People’s Army (NPA) at Brgy. Sta. Cruz, Matuguinao, Samar 1P.M., yesterday.

Arman Diaz of legal age, married and a resident of the Brgy Madoroto of said town was shot dead by five unidentified members of NPA using assorted high powered fire arms while he was in his farm place. Victim suffered gunshot wounds all over his body that caused his instantaneous death.

Based on the reports of the Army’s 34th Infantry Battalion, the victim was mercilessly slain in front of his children and wife. After the killing, the dead body of Diaz was allegedly dragged and emplaced at the center of barangay plaza to exhibit with the populace. The residents disclosed that the victim is known for being hushed and hard-working in upbringing his family and remember nothing to pay with the underground movement.

The people of Matuguinao particularly the victim’s family are calling to the human rights groups especially to the Katungod-Sinirangang Bisayas to give due attention to the barbaric, un-Godly and violent killing perpetrated by the terrorists. They also call on to the Katungod-SB to conduct investigation to give justice to the victim.
“Election Day is fast approaching. This is perhaps one of their means to sow terror to the masses in order to create chaos and destruct the rights of the people to vote and choose a candidate of their choice”. Exposed by Roberto Gacuma a.k.a Ka Huling in his most interviews. Ka Huling is a former top rank NPA official of Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) that was captured by the government forces sometime in 2007.

Meanwhile, PNP Matuguinao is now conducting necessary investigation to give justice to the victim. The 34IB under Lt. Col. Jose B Gongona immediately conducts pursuit and security operations in the area to go after the perpetrators.

Major General Arthur I Tabaquero, Commander 8ID said, “this is a clear manifestation that the terrorist NPA are the number one violator of human rights. This is also the reason why the development in the province is at stake.” ###

One terrorist killed, one soldier wounded in a clash

A terrorist NPA was killed and two others were wounded following an encounter transpired between the members of the Army’s 20^th Infantry Battalion and the terrorist group after responding to the civilian tip that some armed rebels are collecting foodstuff and extorting money to the local folks of barangay Santander, Bobon, Northern Samar yesterday morning.

The encounter transpired at around 10 in the morning when the troops of Lt. Florencio Tayo responded to the tips of the civilians.

Meanwhile, an M16 rifle, two handheld radios at various subversive documents were left and recovered by the pursuing troops in the area of encounter after about 10 minutes of firefight.

Initial information reveals that upon approaching of the troops under Lt. Tayo the said terrorist group immediately fired upon unto them the initiated the firefight between the groups.

One soldier was slightly wounded, Sgt Floro Lozano who was immediately air-evacuated and now in a stable condition at Camp Lukban Station Hospital.

It is also believed that more wounded rebels were dragged by their comrades towards their secured places as evident in their route of withdrawals. This was confirmed by some of the local folks who personally saw some withdrawing rebels.

This incident is another proof that our localities can no longer stand with the terrorist’s different modes of sourcing out support in order to sustain their existence. With this, the 20IB thru their commander, Lt. Col. Jose Narciso continued their pursuit operations in order to track down with the fleeing rebels and let them face charges against the law.

One rebel slain in encounter

CATBALCOGAN CITY- One NPA bandit was killed and two were wounded while a government trooper was slightly injured in an encounter in a remote village in Oras, Eastern Samar Wednesday at around 7:00 O’clock in the morning.

Lt. Colonel Armand Rico, Chief DPAO, 8th Infantry Division, based in Catbalogan City, said that the wounded soldier, identified as Pfc Ramon Estico, is now in stable condition and recuperating.

The said encounter, the first in the area for this year, took place in sitio Tugop, Barangay Rizal, some 26 kms away from the town proper.

Lt. Col. Rico said that one of the 10 rebels belonging to SECOM, North East, Eastern Samar Provincial Party Committee, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee was killed while two others sustained injuries during the 30 minutes firefight that also resulted in the government troops from the 14th Infantry Battalion led by Lt. Antonio Dayag recovering one M16 rifle bearing serial number: 135108, one rifle grenade, two back packs, one bandoler, three with full of ammunition, medical kit, one detonating cord with blasting cap, and personal belongings.

“The wounded rebels were dragged by their escaping comrades”, the information officer of the 8th ID said.

“Our soldiers, under Lt. Antonio Dayag, were in the area as part of their community work”, Rico said.

Major General Arthur Tabaquero, commanding general of the division, immediately directed for the troops of the 14th IB, under Lt. Col. Jaime Hidalgo, to hunt down the rebels and intensify security operations in the area.