Marcos meets with Eastern Visayas troops; lauds security, peace efforts

TACLOBAN CITY – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. visited the headquarters of the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division (8ID) in Catbalogan City, Samar on Friday and expressed full support for soldiers carrying out security and peace-building missions in Eastern Visayas.

Marcos, who is also commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), met with officers and enlisted personnel of the 8ID at Camp General Vicente Lukban, which is under the command of Maj. Gen. Peter Burgonio.

During his “Talk to Troops,” Marcos commended the soldiers for their dedication and sacrifices in protecting communities and supporting government efforts to promote peace and development in the region.

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He also encouraged the troops to continue the strategies and tactics that have been producing results in their operations.

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“Whatever it is that you are doing, kung anuman ang inyong nagiging strategy, kung anuman ang nagiging tactics ninyo, ituloy ninyo dahil maganda ang nakikita nating resulta (Whatever strategy you are using, whatever tactics you are employing, continue them because we are seeing good results). We will continue to do that and the government is here standing behind you in anything that you need,” Marcos said.

The visit came as the 8ID continues to conduct security operations against the New People’s Army in parts of Eastern Visayas.

On Sept. 8, government forces figured in a brief encounter with NPA members in Baybay City, Leyte, resulting in the death of a ranking rebel leader, according to the military.

Earlier this month, four NPA members also surrendered in Samar provinces, while six firearms were recovered.

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Marcos also heard from the soldiers about the security situation and the challenges they encounter in carrying out their missions across the division’s area of responsibility.

The 8ID oversees Army units operating in Leyte, Southern Leyte, Samar, Eastern Samar, Northern Samar and Biliran.

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Aside from military operations, the Army has been supporting government efforts to encourage members of the armed rebel groups to return to civilian life through localized peace engagement and reintegration programs.

Marcos noted the military’s broader role in helping create conditions for government services, livelihood opportunities, infrastructure projects and economic activities to reach communities.

He also recognized the sacrifices of military personnel and their families and reaffirmed the government’s support for strengthening the capabilities and welfare of the AFP.

For Burgonio and the 8ID, also known as the Stormtroopers, the president’s visit highlighted the national government’s continuing support for their mission of maintaining security while working with local governments, law enforcement agencies and communities to advance peace and development in Eastern Visayas.

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The division said it remains committed to operational readiness, protecting communities and working with government and civilian stakeholders in pursuing lasting peace and development across its area of responsibility. /gsg