Lt. Gen. Galido, in his meeting with Lt. Gen. Stuart, reaffirmed the
Philippine Army's commitment to maintaining a productive and healthy
engagement with AUSA by continuing to conduct bilateral exercises
such as the annual Carabaroo and Kasangga. The Army Chief noted that
these bilateral trainings are crucial amid the increased security
challenges that could potentially disrupt peace in the region
Meanwhile, in his meeting with Lt. Gen. Mais, Lt. Gen. Galido
emphasized the importance of Germany's pivot to the Indo-Pacific
region, particularly in promoting a Rules-Based International Order
and respect for International Law and the United Nations Convention
on the Law of the Sea. The meeting comes as Germany and the
Philippines work to finalize a Defense Pact by the end of 2025,
following the historic visit of German Defense Minister Boris
Pistorius to Manila in August 2024 which marked the first visit by a
German Defense Chief to the Philippines.
The Philippine Army
acknowledges Australia and Germany's significant contributions to
the Philippine Army’s modernization thrust and looks forward to
future bilateral activities to build collective capabilities to
effectively and efficiently address any emerging security challenges
in the region, promote stability and cooperation among nations.
45 communist terrorists
neutralized, 54 firearms seized in Eastern Visayas in 2025
By
DPAO, 8ID PA
July 14, 2025
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – The 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division, Philippine
Army, recorded a major operational breakthrough in Eastern Visayas,
neutralizing 45 members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) and
recovering 54 firearms during intensified military operations in the
first semester of calendar year 2025.
Of the 45 neutralized CTG
members, 17 were killed in armed encounters with government troops,
1 captured, and 27 voluntarily surrendered to authorities – an
indication of the declining morale and dwindling strength of the
insurgents.
A total of 54 firearms
were seized, dealing a significant blow to the CTG’s armed
capability. These include 21 firearms recovered during armed
engagements, and 33 firearms voluntarily surrendered.
Major General Adonis Ariel
G. Orio, Commander of Joint Task Force Storm and the 8ID, emphasized
that these accomplishments were the result of both relentless
military efforts and the active cooperation of local communities.
“These successes are not
ours alone – they are the product of strong collaboration with our
local government units, partner agencies, and most importantly, the
people in the communities. The timely information and continued
support from civilians have been vital in weakening the enemy’s
operational capacity,” Maj. Gen. Orio said.
He added that the recent
gains are not only tactical victories but also clear indicators of
the CTG’s declining influence in the region.
“These operations have
delivered a substantial blow to the CTG’s ranks and resources. We
are closing in on our goal of achieving genuine and lasting peace in
Eastern Visayas. Rest assured, your Army will not relent. We will
sustain our focused military operations while also supporting
efforts that promote good governance and socio-economic
development,” he expressed.
The 8ID reiterates its
call for the remaining CTG members to lay down their arms and return
to the fold of the law, as the government continues to open avenues
for reintegration and a peaceful life.
Army installs new Vice
Commander and Chief of Staff
Army
Chief Lt. Gen. Roy M. Galido turns over the Office of the
Vice Commander mace to Army Vice Commander Maj. Gen. Efren
F. Morados during the Joint Assumption of Office and Donning
of Ranks Ceremony on July 8, 2025 in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig
City (Photos by PFC Divino S. Lozano PA/OCPA) |
By
OACPA
July 9, 2025
FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig
City – The Philippine Army installed a new Vice Commander and a
Chief of Staff in a Joint Assumption of Office and Donning of Ranks
Ceremony on July 8, 2025, in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Army Chief Lt. Gen. Roy M.
Galido donned the two-star ranks on Army Vice Commander Maj. Gen.
Efren F. Morados and Army Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Ronald Jess S.
Alcudia in a ceremony that immediately followed the arrival honors
for the two Army leaders.
It can be noted that Maj.
Gen. Morados served as the Deputy Commander of the 803rd Infantry
“Peacemaker” Brigade from July 2020 to February 2023. He eventually
became the Peacemaker Brigade Commander from February 2023 and
concurrently as Assistant Division Commander of the 8th Infantry
Division from March 2025 until his designation as the Army's Vice
Commander. He is a proud member of the Philippine Military Class (PMA)
Class of 1992.
Meanwhile, Maj. Gen.
Alcudia led the 202nd Infantry “Unifier” Brigade from December 2023
until his assumption as the Army's Chief of Staff. He previously
served as the deputy commander of the Unifier Brigade from March
2023 to December 2023. Maj. Gen. Alcudia is a member of PMA Class of
1993.
In his keynote remarks,
Lt. Gen. Galido expressed confidence that the two Army leaders will
help steer the organization in its pivot to external security
operations. “With your proven leadership, wealth of experience and
deep understanding, I am confident that you will not only sustain
this momentum but raise it to even greater heights,” the Army Chief
remarked. Lt. Gen. Galido concluded by calling on the two leaders to
“focus on the given tasks” in service of the Philippine Army and the
Filipino nation.
Maasin City - first LGU
in Visayas to integrate National ID Authentication Services
Press Release
July 9, 2025
MAASIN CITY – The
Philippine Statistics Authority Regional Statistical Services Office
VIII (PSA RSSO 8) extends its warmest congratulations to the Local
Government of Maasin City, Southern Leyte, for successfully
integrating the National ID Authentication Services (NIDAS) into the
Records Verification System (RVS) of their City Civil Registry
Office (CCRO). This remarkable achievement makes Maasin City the
first in the Visayas regions and the second nationwide to implement
this integration.
A Ceremonial Signing of
the Subscription Contract (SubCon) between PSA and LGU Maasin City
took place on 24 June 2025. Key PSA officials, including Deputy
National Statistician (DNS) Rosalinda P. Bautista, OIC National
Statistician Atty. Henedine P. Palabras, and Government Service Use
Case Division Chief Oliver P. Chancoco, were in attendance. Hon.
City Councilor Mikhael Leonardo V. Mercado signed the contract on
behalf of City Mayor Hon. Nacional V. Mercado, with LGU Data
Protection Officer Albert J. Maña as a witness.
PSA is deeply grateful for
the unwavering dedication of all parties involved in this
partnership. NIDAS is a crucial tool for streamlining transactions
and combating fraud within the CCRO's processes. Currently, LGU
Maasin City is the first in Eastern Visayas to integrate NIDAS, and
PSA encourages other government units and relying parties to utilize
this free system. We are committed to assisting with onboarding
requirements and providing technical sessions, particularly for
those with stand-alone systems ready for integration.
DAR condones P53M
amortizations of ARBs
|
More
than P53 million of amortization of agrarian reform
beneficiaries (ARBs) in Eastern Visayas were erased as 1,293
ARBs receive their Certificates of Condonation with Release
of Mortgage (COCROMs) from Department of Agrarian Reform
(DAR) Undersecretary for Field Operations Office, Atty.
Kazel Celeste, on Saturday. |
By
JOSE ALSMITH L.
SORIA
July 5, 2025
TACLOBAN CITY – As
the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) commemorates on Monday, the
second year of implementation of the Republic Act No. 11953, or the
New Agrarian Emancipation Act, DAR in Eastern Visayas again
distributed this morning at the Tacloban City Convention Center
nearly 2,000 Certificates of Condonation with Release of Mortgage (COCROMs)
to 1,293 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) across the region.
Atty. Kazel Celeste, DAR
Undersecretary for Field Operations office, led the distribution of
COCROMs, which erased more than P53 million of unpaid amortizations,
including interests of the said ARBs.
Aside from COCROMs,
Celeste, assisted by DAR Eastern Visayas Regional Director, Atty.
Robert Anthony Yu, also distributed 4,486 individual land titles,
covering an aggregate area of more than six thousand hectares to
3,779 ARBs.
8ID commander
recognizes gallant soldiers for successful anti-communist operation
in E. Visayas
By
DPAO, 8ID PA
July 4, 2025
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – In a stirring testament to excellence and dedication, the
Commander of the 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division, Major
General Adonis Ariel G. Orio, PA, honored the top-performing Special
Operations unit during an awarding ceremony held on July 3, 2025 at
Camp Juan Ponce Sumuroy, Catarman, Northern Samar.
The highlight of the
ceremony was the formal recognition of outstanding personnel from
the 4th Scout Ranger Battalion, who demonstrated exceptional
performance and made significant contributions to the mission of the
8ID.
These exemplary soldiers
were awarded the Military Merit Medal with Spearhead Device by Maj.
Gen. Orio, in a symbolic gesture of commendation and gratitude for
their vital role in the successful conduct of multiple combat
operations.
The operations resulted in
a series of encounters with remnants of the Regional Guerrilla Unit
and Sub-Regional Committee Arctic of the Eastern Visayas Regional
Party Committee, in Barangay Nagoocan, Northern Samar. These
engagements led to the neutralization of five Communist NPA
Terrorists and the recovery of several firearms and war materiel,
including one Ultimax 100 Mark III Squad Automatic Weapon, one M16
rifle, one Uzi submachine gun, two long magazines, 90 rounds of
7.62mm ammunition, 170 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, and other combat
equipment.
In his statement, Maj.
Gen. Orio emphasized that awarded troops have not only proven their
tactical prowess but have also demonstrated the heart and grit that
embody the true spirit of a Scout Ranger.
“Today, we honor your hard
work and sacrifices. More importantly, we recognize your unwavering
readiness to protect our people and our land,” Maj. Gen. Orio
emphasized.
He also expressed the
vital role of the Scout Rangers in advancing the 8ID’s campaign for
peace and development across Eastern Visayas. He noted that their
deployment significantly strengthened the Division’s operational
capabilities, particularly in high-risk and conflict-affected areas.
“May you carry forward the
skills you have mastered and the values that define you as leaders
of men. Be the embodiment of discipline, honor, and service that the
8ID has instilled in you,” Maj. Gen. Orio concluded.
Flood wall built to
safeguard the community of Pagsanghan, Samar
By
GISSELLE G. PARUNGAO
June 27, 2025
CALBAYOG CITY – A
flood control structure is recently built at Brgy. San Luis in the
municipality of Pagsanghan, Samar under FY 2024 of the General
Appropriations Act (GAA) with a total contract amount of P29.67
million.
The structure spans 170
linear meters and height of three (3) meters with walkway and
parapet wall built along it.
The flood mitigating
structure built along Pagsanghan River will prevent floodwaters from
inundating structures and infrastructures, minimizing damage to
property and reducing the risk to human life or lessen them. The
said river is an offshoot of Gandara River that is one of the major
rivers in Samar thus, the municipality of Pagsanghan is prone to
flooding.
CARD MRI holds a study
tour for the media in Cebu
|
Media
participants and CARD MRI key officers gathered for a media
briefing to conclude the three-day PANAGHIUSA: CARD MRI
Exposure Tour program. |
By
EDRIAN B. BANANIA
June 27, 2025
SAN PABLO CITY –
CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI) invited media
practitioners from Laguna, Quezon Province, Tarlac, Cebu, and Bohol
to participate in its PANAGHIUSA: CARD MRI Exposure Tour Program
held in Cebu from June 4 to 6, 2025.
“The goal of this program
is to give media participants a firsthand experience of how CARD MRI
empowers socioeconomically challenged communities. This also serves
as a platform to engage with media practitioners who can help us
share our mission of eradicating poverty in the country,” said Ms.
Marilyn Manila, President of CARD MRI Publishing House.
Led by CARD MRI Publishing
House, the media participants visited the centers and clients of
CARD, Inc. (A Microfinance NGO) and CARD SME Bank, Inc., a thrift
bank under CARD MRI. They learned inspiring success stories from
microentrepreneurs supported by these institutions. The itinerary
also included a brief Cebu tour to showcase the city’s rich culture
and history.
Moreover, the participants
visited some CARD MRI offices, including the CARD SME Bank Cebu,
CARD Pioneer Microinsurance, Inc. (CPMI) in Cebu City, CARD Mutual
Benefit Association (CARD MBA), and CARD, Inc. Area Office in
Guadalupe. There, they gained deeper insight into the company’s
microfinance and microinsurance products, as well as the positive
impact these services have on communities through financial
inclusion and development programs.
The three-day event in
Cebu was attended by seven media practitioners from Luzon and
Visayas, including Mr. Getulio Cantos of Radyo Pilipinas Lucena; Ms.
Aura Flores of The Southern Tagalog Herald from San Pablo City,
Laguna; Mr. Bonifacio Dacayanan of Facts and Figures from Tarlac;
Mr. Ronaldo Dizon of Tarlakenyo from Tarlac; Mr. Ted Ayeng from DYTR
Bohol; Mr. Brent Plenos from iFM 93.9 Cebu; and Ms. Sheila Gravinez
of Radyo Pilipinas Cebu.
The PANAGHIUSA: CARD MRI
Exposure Tour Program is an initiative organized by CARD MRI
Publishing House – an institution under CARD MRI – that aims to
elevate the capacity of CARD MRI clients by sharing progressive and
positive stories. Another tour program is planned for Zamboanga in
July 2025.
Rise Up for Life and
Rights backs ICC public counsel for victims and prosecutor’s
opposition to Duterte’s interim release
By
RISE UP
June 25, 2025
MANILA – Rise Up
for Life and Rights supports and validates the position of the ICC
Office of the Public Counsel for Victims (OPCV) and welcomes the
response of the Office of the Prosecutor to oppose former President
Rodrigo Duterte’s request for interim release. The OPCV stands as a
temporary representative for victims pending the appointment of
legal representative of choice by the victims.
“Our collective prayers
have not been in vain. Though tears continue to fall, we see hope in
the Prosecutor’s action. We pray that our call for justice will be
heard until the very end,” said Nanay Llore, one of the mothers of
Rise Up.
For the victims’ families,
Duterte remains a continuing threat to justice, to the integrity of
the investigation, and to the safety of witnesses. They expressed
deep gratitude to their legal counsel and to the many supporters who
continue to stand with them in their ongoing fight for justice and
accountability. “We thank our fellow mothers who never stop
organizing and fighting. We are also deeply grateful to our lawyers,
especially Atty. Conti, for her unwavering dedication, and to Atty.
Neri, who has always stood beside us,” Llore Pasco continued.
Despite years of pain and
fear, the mothers remain steadfast in their belief that truth will
prevail. “Truth will always shine through the lies. This decision
eased some of our fears. If Duterte were granted temporary release,
we victims would once again be left vulnerable,” Pasco added. “Even
if this isn’t yet the final victory, we feel that justice is drawing
near, and that is a continuing and pulsating hope.”
From Geneva to the
Philippines:
Philippine UPR Watch
delegation is attending the 59th Session of the UN Human Rights
Council in Geneva, Deaconess Rubylin Litao, coordinator of Rise Up,
stated: “For years, the mothers have waited with deep patience,
while justice remains elusive. Duterte must remain in detention, as
this ensures the long-overdue trial proceeds. Anything less would
dishonor the suffering of the thousands killed and the grief of
those left behind.”
Litao emphasized that
Duterte’s continued detention is essential, given his repeated
threats, the deep entrenchment of his allies in government, and the
risks to witnesses. “We pray that the wheels of justice must remain
moving as the machinery of impunity remains active. Witnesses are
still under threat. His release would jeopardize both the
investigation and the lives of those who speak out.”
Litao cited Duterte’s past
threats to “double the killings,” his intimidation of ICC officials,
and the orchestrated harassment of witnesses by his associates as
strong reasons for rejecting his request for interim freedom.
The ICC remains the only
credible legal remedy to justice since the justice system in the
Philippines remains dim and despondent. Several years of struggle,
and only through the ICC and the collective and resolved action of
the mothers that hope for justice came shining through. Litao
emphasized, and thus, they urge that the Pre-Trial Chamber to uphold
the Prosecutor’s position and ensure that it moves forward without
delay.
Meanwhile, Rise Up for
Life and for Rights stands firm in asserting that victims who have
bravely stood up and fought for their loved ones must be protected.
The families have already endured so much. The last thing they need
is justice, without compromise, delay, or special treatment.
We urge the international
community not to give in to calls for a haven for those facing
trial. Justice must prioritize the victims, not be on the side of
the powerful.
“Let justice proceed. Let
justice be served,” Litao concluded.
11 neutralized, 15
firearms seized as 8ID delivers major blow against Communist
Terrorist Groups in Eastern Visayas
By
DPAO, 8ID PA
June 22, 2025
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – The 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division, Philippine
Army, delivered major gains against Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs)
in Eastern Visayas following a series of successful encounters
across the provinces of Samar Island.
Between May and June 2025,
the 8ID recorded five encounters, resulting in the deaths of seven
CTG members and the recovery of nine assorted firearms, along with
other war materiel. Four CTG members, including a high ranking CTG
leader, also surrendered, leading to the discovery of an arms cache
containing four high-powered firearms and the surrender of two other
more.
On May 26, 2025, two CTG
members voluntarily surrendered to the troops of 63rd Infantry
Battalion in Basey, Samar bringing along one M4 A1 Carbine and M16
rifle. These CTG members were identified as alias Jud/Atom/Iso and
alias Nadin/Brix/Arian, both are members of the Sub-Regional
Committee Sesame.
The first encounter
occurred on May 29 in San Jose de Buan, Samar, where one
unidentified communist terrorist was killed.
On June 2, 2025, a CTG
leader identified as alias In-In surrendered to the troops of the
20th Infantry Battalion leading to the discovery and seizure of a
hidden arms cache containing two M14 rifles, one M16 rifle, one M653
rifle, three improvised hand grenades and other medical
paraphernalia.
Alias In-In, identified as
the Vice Squad Leader of Squad 1, Sub-Regional Guerrilla Unit,
Sub-Regional Committee Arctic operating in the province of Northern
Samar.
On the same day, June 2,
another CTG member identified as alias Bug-ot of the Regional
Guerrilla Unit, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC),
also surrendered.
This was followed by a
firefight on June 3, in Barangay Nagoocan, Catubig, Northern Samar,
where five CTG members were killed.
The fatalities were
identified as Noel Lebico Sr., Arnel Aquino, and Nonoy Norcio, along
with two others who remain unidentified. Troops seized three
high-powered firearms including a Squad Automatic Weapon, an M16
rifle, and an Uzi submachine gun.
Six days after, June 9,
troops from the 87th Infantry Battalion clashed with approximately
30 members of the Yakal Platoon, Sub-Regional Committee Browser,
EVRPC. The encounter led to the seizure of four M16 rifles, one
.45-caliber pistol, a mobile phone, medical supplies, and personal
belongings.
The recent clash occurred
on June 15 in Sitio Bagong Bario, Barangay Pinanag-an, Borongan
City, Eastern Samar, where a CTG member, identified as Jomar Discar,
also known as alias Guimo or Bobby, was killed. The troops recovered
one M653 rifle.
Major General Adonis Ariel
G. Orio, commander of the 8ID, credited the success of the
operations to the support and cooperation of local communities.
“We have dealt another
significant blow to the CTG ranks, and this is all thanks to the
invaluable cooperation of the residents of Eastern Visayas. We are
now in the final lap of our goal of achieving long-lasting peace,
and every citizen’s involvement is crucial. Let us continue working
together to put an end to this decades-long insurgency and bring
lasting peace and development to Eastern Visayas,” Maj. Gen. Orio
said.
Maj. Gen. Orio added that
more breakthroughs can be expected as military operations continue
to intensify.
“Your soldiers in Eastern
Visayas remain committed to our mission. We will not rest until the
threat posed by Communist Terrorist Groups is fully eradicated. We
will scour every mountain to find them and put an irreversible end
to their atrocities,” he said.
Maj. Gen. Orio also
reiterated the government’s openness to reconciliation, encouraging
remaining CTG members to surrender and take advantage of the
National Amnesty Program.
First DICT eGov kiosk
now at PSA RSSO 08
By
PSA-8
June 20, 2025
TACLOBAN CITY – The
Philippine Statistics Authority Regional Statistical Services Office
VIII (PSA RSSO 8) is one of the recipients of the eGov Kiosk from
the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT)
now installed at PSA RSSO 8 2nd Floor, Gaisano Capital, Real St.,
Tacloban City, Leyte.
The eGov kiosk is the very
first e-government portal which geared to level-up digitalization of
government services, It has the one-stop-shop features offering
various services from both national and local government agencies
aimed to allow clients access links on processes such as securing
online appointment, applications and latest instructions without the
need of going to each office they intend to visit. PSA Regional
Director, Wilma A. Perante, personally welcomed and explored the
eGov Kiosk which was set up at the nearest to the client’s area last
11 June 2025.
The kiosk also will also
assist the public without access to internet and will reduce long
queues and access the same services by downloading the eGov PH Super
App. This innovation is the very first e-government portal in the
country rolled out in selected Local Government Units (LGUs) and
National Government Agency (NGAs) in Region VIII.
8ID installs acting
801st Infantry Brigade commander
By
DPAO, 8ID PA
June 19, 2025
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – The 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division has installed an
Acting Commander of 801st Infantry Brigade in a Change of Command or
Relinquishment Ceremony at 801IBde Headquarters on Thursday, June
19, 2025 in Hinabangan, Samar.
The 8ID Commander, Major
General Adonis Ariel G. Orio was represented by 8ID Acting Division
Commander, Brigadier General Efren Morados, who presided over the
ceremony.
Brigadier General Lenart R
Lelina, the outgoing 801IBde Commander, relinquished the post to
Colonel Carmilo T Pangatungan, the incoming Acting Brigade
Commander.
Brig.Gen. Lelina is set to
retire on June 27, 2025, after three years of dedicated service as
the unit’s Brigade Commander.
In a message delivered by
Brig.Gen. Morados on behalf of 8ID Commander Maj.Gen. Orio, the 8ID
leadership lauded Brig. Gen. Lelina’s exemplary performance, which
played a vital role in the Division’s campaign to end local
insurgency in Eastern Visayas.
“Under your command, Sir,
the 801st Infantry Brigade became a driving force in our campaign to
end insurgency in Eastern Visayas. You led with both strength and
vision - executing over 5,000 combat and small-unit operations,
dismantling three guerrilla fronts, neutralizing and encouraging the
surrender of hundreds of CTG elements, and recovering a significant
cache of enemy weapons, explosives, and materials. Your service
reflects the highest ideals of the profession of arms. Well done,
Sir. You have led with honor and left a mark that matters,” Brig.Gen.
Morados said.
Maj. Gen. Orio also
challenged Col. Pangatungan as the new Acting Brigade Commander, to
build on the gains made by his predecessor and guide the Brigade in
the critical phase of transition.
“You are entrusted to
carry forward the momentum that has been built – to sustain
operational excellence, strengthen community partnerships, and guide
this Brigade through a critical period of transition as we shift
from internal security to territorial defense operations. Your
leadership must inspire stability, adaptability, and purpose,” he
added.
In his valedictory
address, Brig.Gen. Lelina thanked the men and women of 801st
Brigade, as well as the stakeholders and partner agencies for their
support and dedication throughout his term that led the unit to
achieve greater heights.
“For the past three years
and five months, I was given the task to head the 801st Brigade. I
do not claim this accomplishment bilang akin lamang kundi, of
course, gawa nating lahat ito. Kami dito sa Brigade, nakikita namin
kung ano yung mga individual contributions of the units. All those
accomplishments are not mine, hindi sa akin iyon kundi collective
accomplishments of all the units, of all the local government units,
as well as other members ng mga stakeholders natin,” Brig.Gen.
Lelina expressed.
Brig.Gen. Lelina was also
awarded the Military Merit Medal Interim to Distinguished Service
Star for his outstanding leadership and service, during the
ceremony.
Meanwhile, Col.
Pangatungan accepted the challenge as the Acting Commander of 801st
Brigade with resolve and commitment.
“I am truly honored and
ready to face the challenges ahead. I also urge everyone to give
your utmost cooperation and support as we collectively perform our
mandated tasks in order to accomplish our mission. Let us work
together for the betterment of our country - each one of us has that
responsibility and the capacity to pitch-in our share of our burden
of building the nation,” Col. Pangatungan said.
The Change of Command or
Relinquishment Ceremony marks a significant transition as the 801st
Infantry Brigade continue its critical role in ensuring peace,
security, and development in Eastern Visayas.
Top-ranking
communist-terrorist leader, two Others Killed in an armed encounter
in Carigara, Leyte
By
DPAO, 8ID PA
June 18, 2025
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – Troops of the 93rd Infantry "Bantay Kapayapaan"
Battalion, Philippine Army, engaged in an armed encounter that
resulted in the death of three members of the Squad 2, Island
Committee (IC) LEVOX of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee
(EVRPC) in the hinterlands of Barangay Cogon, Carigara, Leyte on
June 18, 2025.
One of the three
causalities was identified as Juanito P. Sellesa Jr., alias Tibor,
an Executive Member of Island Committee (IC) LEVOX; while the other
two were identified as Eugene Paclita, alias Dimple, Squad Leader of
Squad 2, and Lito L. Delante, alias Dodong, a member of the same
squad of the said NPA unit.
One M16 rifle with two
long magazines, one caliber .45 pistol with two magazines, one hand
grenade, personal belongings, and subversive documents were seized
by the troops in the CTG combatants’ possession.
It can be remembered that
alias Tibor and his group were Wanted for the crime of Murder
killing Jesus Sarcilla alias Sosing in Barangay Binibihan, Carigara,
Leyte on December 07, 2021.
Sarcilla was killed
mercilessly in front of his daughter Zosima Sarcilla despite the
goodwill extended by the victim to the said terrorist group by
providing them food and shelter.
Apart from the Criminal
Charges filed at the Regional Trial Court, a case for violating
International Humanitarian Law has been filed against alias Tibor’s
group at Branch 48, Regional Prosecution Office 8 of Commission on
Human Rights Regional Office 8.
In a statement, Brigadier
General Noel Vestuir Commander of the 802nd Infantry (Peerless)
Brigade, Philippine Army lauded the successful combat operation of
the troops of the 93IB that led to the neutralization of the
top-ranking leader of IC, LEVOX of the EVRPC and two others.
“Ang pagkaka neutralized
sa tatlong ito lalong lalo na kay alias Tibor ay nagsilbing hustisya
para sa pamilya ni Jesus Sarcilla na walang awang pinatay sa harap
ng kanyang anak. Hindi man niya hinarap ang batas sa kanyang krimen,
hinarap naman niya ang bangis ng mga sundalo na naghatid sa kanya sa
kanyang huling hantungan,” Brig Gen Vestuir said.
Major General Adonis Ariel
G Orio, Commander, 8th Infantry Division, regarded the recent
accomplishment as a result of intensive Civil-Military Operations.
He also condemned the insurgents’ continued recruitment activities
in Eastern Visayas.
“Even up to this day, the
Communist Terrorist Group is still pursuing recruitment activities
to corrupt the youth, farmers, and the common people. What they are
doing is an outright violation of humanity and justice as they prey
on the vulnerable, manipulate the people, and compromise the
government’s effort in bringing peace and development in the
region,” said Maj. Gen. Orio.
He continuously urged the
people to remain firm in their support for the government and deny
any presence of insurgency in their area.
“There is nothing
revolutionary in turning your future into tools of violence. To the
insurgents, there is no honor in deceiving the people with your
false ideals and promises while you selfishly use them as pawns in
your senseless armed struggle. As the Commander of the 8th Infantry
Division, I strongly condemn these atrocities, and I will not allow
these insurgents to steal the opportunity of building a progressive
Eastern Visayas,” he added.
Maj. Gen. Orio also
reiterated his call to the remaining Communist Terrorist Group
members to surrender to the government, highlighting the promising
future that awaits them if they yield arms.
“I assure you that there
is no haven for terrorism in 8ID’s areas of operations. To those
still in the ranks of CTG, let there be no more lives wasted in
armed struggle. Surrender now, return to your families, and choose
the path of peace while there is still time,” Maj. Gen. Orio
articulated.
Excellence in action:
CGPA lauds 8ID Stormtroopers’ accomplishments in Eastern Visayas
By
DPAO, 8ID PA
June 16, 2025
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – Highlighting the Army leadership’s commitment to operational
excellence, personnel development, and sustained organizational
readiness in Eastern Visayas, Philippine Army Commanding General Lt.
Gen. Roy M. Galido visited the 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division
on June 13, 2025.
During his visit, Lt. Gen.
Galido personally recognized several units and personnel of 8ID for
their invaluable achievements and exemplary contributions to the
mission of the Philippine Army through the Commanding General
Philippine Army Awarding Ceremony.
In his remarks, Lt. Gen.
Galido reaffirmed his commitment to promoting a positive work
environment and healthy living conditions for every soldier and
civilian employee. He discussed ongoing and future projects aimed at
uplifting soldiers’ morale and welfare.
“Despite knowing the
hardships and sacrifices that come with wearing the Philippine Army
uniform, you still volunteered to serve – and that makes you
different. That makes you the breathing force of this organization.
Hence, your service must not only be rewarded with opportunities for
professional growth but also with a working environment that
promotes physical competency and mental resilience,” said Lt. Gen.
Galido.
Lt. Gen. Galido also
emphasized the need to professionalize the organization by requiring
every soldier to attain Civil Service eligibility, which he
described as a fundamental step toward securing their future.
“We must build a culture
where every soldier is empowered. Hindi lang dapat kayo hinubog para
maging mandirigma, but as professionals and leaders. Do not deprive
your people of constant learning and education, because we must
uphold the standards of the organization. The Philippine Army must
not only be defined by its combat readiness but also by the quality
and qualifications of its people,” Lt. Gen. Galido concluded.
The visit concluded with a
Stormtroopers Road Run, where the Commanding General led 8ID
Stormtroopers in promoting physical fitness – a vital aspect of
every soldier’s competence.
DPWH Samar 2nd DEO
participates in nationwide simultaneous mangrove planting for DPWH
127th anniversary
Press Release
June 16, 2025
CATBALOGAN CITY –
In celebration of the 127th Anniversary of the Department of Public
Works and Highways (DPWH), the Samar Second District Engineering
Office actively joined the Nationwide Simultaneous Tree Planting
Activity, with a focus on mangrove planting, held on June 11, 2025.
This initiative, held
under the theme "Kaagapay sa Pag-unlad para sa Bagong Pilipinas,"
aligns with the celebration of Philippine Arbor Day and supports the
national effort to promote environmental sustainability, coastal
protection, and community resilience. The activity also highlights
DPWH’s commitment to nation-building not only through infrastructure
but also through environmental responsibility.
DPWH Samar 2nd DEO
employees planted mangrove seedlings in selected coastal areas
within the district, in coordination with the Department of
Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the local government.
This effort aims to restore coastal ecosystems, protect against
erosion and storm surges, and nurture marine biodiversity.
In accordance with the
memorandum from the Office of the Secretary, each regional and
district office was tasked to mobilize employees for the activity,
and DPWH Samar 2nd DEO proudly fulfilled this commitment. The office
also supported real-time social media dissemination to raise public
awareness using the hashtag #DPWH127.
A post-activity report,
including the number and type of trees planted and activity
documentation, will be submitted to the Environmental Social
Safeguards Division as part of the Department’s monitoring and
evaluation.
The DPWH Samar 2nd DEO
reaffirms its dedication to sustainable development and continues to
stand as a partner in progress for a greener and stronger
Philippines.
Number of constructions
in Eastern Visayas posts 9.3% increase in the 1st quarter of 2025
By
PSA-8
June 16, 2025
TACLOBAN CITY – The
region’s total number of constructions increased by 9.3 percent,
from 1,392 constructions recorded in the 1st quarter of 2024 to
1,522 constructions in the 1st quarter of 2025.
The
regional increase was brought about more than two-fold (247.6%) by
the combined number of additions/alterations and repair buildings,
from 42 constructions in the 1st quarter of 2024 to 146
constructions in the 1st quarter of 2025. The number of residential
buildings also went up by 3.7 percent, from 831 constructions in the
1st quarter of 2024 to 862 constructions in the 1st quarter of 2025.
On the other hand, the number of non-residential buildings decreased
by 1.0 percent, recording 514 constructions in the 1st quarter of
2025 from 519 constructions in the 1st quarter of 2024.
In the 1st quarter of
2025, the number of residential buildings comprised 56.6 percent of
the total constructions in the region, while non-residential
buildings and additions/alterations and repairs accounted for 33.8
percent and 9.6 percent, respectively.
The total value of
constructions in the region increased to P4.5 billion in the 1st
quarter of 2025 from P3.8 billion in the 1st quarter of 2024. This
spike was attributed to the nearly six-fold (596.1%) surge in the
value of construction for additions/alterations and repairs from
P0.07 billion in the 1st quarter of 2024 to P0.5 billion in the 1st
quarter of 2025. The total value of non-residential buildings
increased by 23.9 percent, from P2.2 billion in the 1st quarter of
2024 to P2.7 billion in the 1st quarter of 2025. On the other hand,
the total value of residential building constructions declined by
11.1 percent, from P1.5 billion in the 1st quarter of 2024 to P1.3
billion in the 1st quarter of 2025.
In terms of share to total
value of construction, non-residential buildings’ value of
construction comprised the bulk at 60.5 percent. The value of
construction of residential buildings contributed 29.3 percent,
while additions/alterations and repairs accounted for 10.2 percent
of the region’s total value of constructions in the 1st quarter of
2025.
Average cost of
construction per square meter was estimated at P11,109 for
residential buildings and P10,993 for non-residential buildings.
Data were based on the
results of construction statistics from approved building permits.
8ID deals another blow
to EVRPC in an encounter in Eastern Samar
By
DPAO, 8ID PA
June 15, 2025
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – The 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division, Philippine
Army, dealt another blow to the Eastern Visayas Regional Party
Committee (EVRPC) following a firefight that resulted on the death
of a Communist New People’s Army Terrorist (CNT) member on June 15,
2025, in the hinterlands of Sitio Bagong Bario, Barangay Pinanag-an,
Borongan City, Eastern Samar.
The encounter occurred
amid focused military operations initiated by the 63rd Infantry
“Innovator” Battalion in response to reports from concerned local
residents on the presence of armed individuals lurking around the
area demanding food. This resulted to a 15-minute firefight with CNT
members, believed to be members of the Remnants of Sub-Regional
Committee Sesame, EVRPC.
After the encounter, a
body of the CNT member, identified as Jomar Discar alias Guimo/Bobby
was abandoned by his fleeing comrades. Troops also seized several
war materials including one M653 rifle, five short magazines,
bandolier, three back packs, and other subversive documents.
Meanwhile, Brigadier
General Noel A Vestuir, Commander of the 802nd Infantry (Peerless)
Brigade, Philippine Army, while condoles to the deceased's family
members, reiterates his firm statement to the remaining active
members of the SRC Sesame to abandon the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG)
or else suffer the same fate with their comrade.
“We were serious when we
issued the ultimatum for them to abandon the armed struggle and we
are just getting started. Expect that we will be relentless in our
combat operations in the following days. Hahalughugin namin ang
kagubatan sa Eastern Samar para tugisin kayo. Enough is enough, the
people in our community have suffered long from your abuse and
deception. Kaya ngayon palang sumuko na kayo habang may oras pa,”
said Brig. Gen. Vestuir.
Major General Adonis Ariel
G Orio, Commander, 8ID, regarded the operation as a result of
intensified community collaboration.
“Ang pakikiisa ng mga
mamamayan sa hangarin ng Philippine Army is a concrete proof that
people are rejecting the ideals and propaganda of the terrorists who
are corrupting the communities we serve and protect. The people are
no longer silent about the CTG’s extortions, and we in the
Philippine Army are actively listening and taking actions," Maj.
Gen. Orio stressed.
Maj. Gen. Orio urged the
public to continue reporting suspicious activities in their
communities and called on remaining members of the CTGs to surrender
and avail the National Amnesty Program under the Enhanced
Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
“I thank the people for
their support in our mission to put an end to this dilemma. Our
vision of a more progressive Eastern Visayas now comes closer to
reality, and we credit this success to the people as well,” Maj.
Gen. Orio added.
The government troops is
now coordinating with local government units for the facilitation of
the burial assistance for the killed CNT.
Modern equipment makes
farming fun for Leyte farmers
|
An
agrarian reform beneficiaries organization (ARBO) from
Barangay Anahawan in Bato, Leyte receives various farm
machineries and equipment worth P3-million from the
Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR). |
By
JOSE ALSMITH L.
SORIA
June 12, 2025
BATO, Leyte –
Farming is now easy and fun for a group of farmers from this town
who recently received various modern farm machineries and equipment
from the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR).
With the four units of
earth ground auger drill machine provided to the Barangay Anahawan
Farmer Agriculture Cooperative (BAFAC), Dionesio Butlig Jr., BAFAC
chairman, shared that digging holes is now easy and fast compared to
the traditional way using bolo or shovel.
Aside from earth ground
auger drill machines, DAR also provided BAFAC five backpack sprayer
and one unit each of poly disk plough, adjustable disk harrow, hand
tractor multifunctional tiller and cultivator, corn sheller, and a
delivery truck.
These farm machineries and
equipment were formally turned over to them by DAR Eastern Visayas
Regional Director, Atty. Robert Anthony Yu, in a simple ceremony
last week. He was assisted by Leyte Provincial Agrarian Reform
Program Officer (PARPO), Atty. Daniel Pen.
Agriculture is among the
sectors being prioritize by the administration of President
Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and provision of modern farm equipment to
agrarian reform beneficiaries organizations (ARBOs) is among the
nine point agenda of DAR Secretary Conrado Estrella III, said Yu.
Butlig, in his message,
expressed gratitude to the President and Secretary Estrella for the
three million-peso worth of assistance which their organization
received under DAR’s Sustainable and Resilient Agrarian Reform
Community (SuRe ARC) Project. According to him, it would be easy for
them now to deliver their harvests to Bontoc (Southern Leyte), where
they usually sell their products.
BAFAC, which is into corn
and peanut production, has 130 members wherein 59 of them are
agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs).
Army ROTC cadets
showcase research prototypes for national defense, nation-building
|
RESCOM,
PA Commander, Maj Gen. Ramon P. Zagala PA, and TUP
President, Engr. Reynaldo P. Ramos sign a Memorandum of
Understanding aimed at fostering research collaboration,
technology transfer, training, seminars, and workshops, in
alignment with the goals of the PA's Reserve Force
Development during the First ROTC Innovation Expo last June
08, 2025 at the TUP Main campus, San Marcelino St, Ayala
Blvd, Ermita, Manila. |
By
OACPA
June 9, 2025
FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig
City – The Philippine Army (PA), through the Reserve Command,
Philippine Army, in partnership with the Technical University of the
Philippines (TUP), showcased the research design capabilities of the
TUP Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) Army cadets in the first
ROTC Innovation Expo last June 08, 2025 at the TUP Main campus, San
Marcelino St, Ayala Blvd, Ermita, Manila. The expo aims to focus on
the ROTC's role in research and development that can contribute to
the Armed Forces of the Philippines' (AFP) implementation of the
Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP).
The SRDP initiative
advocates for increased involvement of universities and higher
educational institutions in promoting science-driven
industrialization, which is essential for strengthening national
defense and security. Lt. Gen. Roy M. Galido, Commanding General of
the Philippine Army, also stressed the significance of integrating
PA Reserve components into national defense strategies and
nation-building efforts as part of broader policy initiatives.
The Reserve Command,
Philippine Army Commander, Maj. Gen. Ramon P. Zagala PA, who was the
Guest of Honor and Speaker, praised the research prototypes
developed by the TUP ROTC. He highlighted their potential for
supporting the Philippine Army's operations during wartime and for
addressing the needs of the Filipino people during peacetime
emergencies.
The winning research
designs included:
- Design and
Implementation of a Software-Integrated Thermal Night Vision System
for Military Field Operations
- Design and Fabrication
of a Permanent Magnet DC Generator Powered by a Building-Mounted
Fibonacci Wind Turbine with an IT-Based Charging Station
- Therapod: A Multi-Turn
LLM Agent for Conversational Therapeutic Interaction and Speech
Emotion Recognition
- Bawkbox: An Automated
Poultry Feeder and Water Dispenser Using ESP32 with Real-Time
Monitoring (Water Quality Sensors, Load-Based Feed Monitoring) and
Camera-Based Illness Detection Using Raspberry Pi 4 for Small
Poultry Farms
The event also featured
the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Reserve
Command, PA, and TUP, aimed at fostering research collaboration,
technology transfer, training, seminars, and workshops, in alignment
with the goals of the PA's Reserve Force Development.
Other ROTC units from
across the National Capital Region (NCR), led by Col. Rey Ferdinand
G. Ga, Commander of the NCR Regional Community Defense Group, along
with Engr. Reynaldo P. Ramos, TUP President, and various TUP
officials, alumni, and representatives from the PA's Office of the
Assistant Chief of Staff for Reservists and Retirees Affairs, OG9,
also participated in the activity.
3 of 5 killed rebels
identified; Families condemn Communists-Terrorist exploitation in
Northern Samar
By
DPAO, 8ID PA
June 9, 2025
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – The 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division, Philippine
Army, has identified three of the five fatalities during hot-pursuit
operation against Communists-Terrorists in Catubig, Northern Samar,
on 08 June 2025.
The remains were turned
over to their respective families through direct coordination with
local government units.
Identified among the
killed CNTs were Noel Lebico Sr., a resident of Roxas, Catubig;
Arnel Aquino of Barangay Osmeña, Palapag; and Nonoy Norcio of Luneta,
Gamay, Northern Samar. Their identities were further confirmed by
alias “In-In,” vice squad leader of Squad 1, Sub-Regional Guerrilla
Unit, Sub-Regional Committee Arctic, Eastern Visayas Regional Party
Committee, who surrendered to the 8ID on June 2, 2025.
Major General Adonis Ariel
G Orio, Commander, 8ID, commended the invaluable coordination of the
residents with government forces, which contributed to the
successful neutralization of the CNTs, who were reportedly involved
in extortion activities in the area.
“The cooperation of the
citizens was a manifestation of the deepening trust and rapport
between the military and the communities we serve and protect. The
ideals that these Communists-Terrorists once used to deceive the
people no longer served them, because their narratives of
“liberation” were constantly dismantled by the lived experiences of
the very people they claimed to represent,” said Maj. Gen Orio.
Meanwhile, the families of
the neutralized CNTs condemned the Communists-Terrorists who
convinced their family members to join the armed struggle and point
them as primarily responsible for their deaths.
“An akon tatay nga hi Noel
Lebico Sr., in osa nga biktima han walhon nga pagtoo han terorista
nga grupo. Nanginginyupo ako han akon bugto nga aada pa ha kagi-osan
nga bumalik na hiya ha pi-od han gobyerno kay waray dadangatan iton
ira waray direksiyon nga idolohiya nga gintotoohan,” Noel Lebico
Jr., son of Noel Lebico Sr., pleaded as he condemn the CNT’s
exploitation and radicalization of the marginalized people of
Northern Samar.
“My father, Noel Lebico
Sr., was also a victim of the is also a victim of the twisted
beliefs of the communist-terrorist group. I am also calling on my
brother to surrender, because he’s been fighting for and supporting
the wrong people.”
Maj. Gen. Orio reiterated
his call to remaining CNTs to surrender and avail themselves of
government assistance through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local
Integration Program (E-CLIP).
“As we help the community
move forward, we should also be reminded of the shared
responsibility we have with other branches of the government to
sustain this newfound unity and vigilance. A continued support and
commitment to our mission will always be crucial. If this operation
has proven anything, it is that real peace and development begin
when the people themselves become our partners in building peace,”
Maj. Gen. Orio emphasized.
“Kami po sa hanay ng
kasundalohan ay hindi magsasawang manawagan sa mga natitirang kasapi
ng komunistang-teroristang grupo na sumuko at magbalik loob na sa
gobyerno. As the bodies of the slain CNTs were laid to rest, I also
call for peace, hoping that no other parents would lose a child, and
no child would lose a parent to a conflict that is never theirs to
fight,” Maj. Gen. Orio concluded.
Another
Communist-Terrorist fighter killed, squad automatic weapon seized as
Northern Samar clash continues
By
DPAO, 8ID PA
June 5, 2025
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – The 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, recovered
another slain member of the Communist New People’s Army Terrorist (CNT)
group during a continuing hot-pursuit operation following recent
armed encounters in Barangay Nagoocan, Catubig, Northern Samar, on
June 4, 2025.
This
latest recovery brings the total number of CNT fatalities in the
Northern Samar clashes to five.
Alongside the remains,
troops from the 8th Infantry Division (8ID) recovered a Ultimax
squad automatic weapon, an M16 rifle, and a Uzi submachine gun.
Authorities are investigating the origin of the firearms,
particularly whether any were previously issued to government
forces.
8ID troops immediately
secured the remains of the slain CNT member and the recovered
high-powered firearms. Authorities have also launched a thorough
investigation to ascertain the identities of the five slain CNTs,
who will be given a dignified burial.
Meanwhile, the soldier who
sustained a gunshot wound during the intense firefight is now in
stable condition and is receiving full medical support and
treatment.
Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel G.
Orio, commander of the 8ID, extended his condolences to the families
of the deceased CNTs while emphasizing the importance of recovering
government-issued equipment used by the terrorist group to sow
violence in communities.
“This retrieval is
regarded by the Philippine Army as a significant step in regaining
control over critical government property and denying the CNTs the
use of military assets to pursue their interests,” Maj. Gen. Orio
said.
“The 8ID will remain
relentless in its mission to secure every inch of territory and
every piece of equipment that strengthens our fight to establish
peace and development in every community we serve,” he added.
Maj. Gen. Orio also called
on remaining CNT members to lay down their arms, return to the fold
of the law, and avail themselves of the government’s National
Amnesty Program. He encouraged them to coordinate with their
relatives for safe passage and to formally apply for amnesty.
DPWH completes flood
control project in Catbalogan City
Press Release
June 4, 2025
CATBALOGAN CITY –
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) - Samar 2nd
District Engineering Office has successfully completed the
construction of flood control structures along Antiao Bridge IV,
also known as the Catbalogan Diversion Bridge, located in Barangay
San Andres, Catbalogan City. The project was finished on schedule,
marking a significant milestone in the city’s infrastructure and
disaster resilience efforts.
Implemented under Contract
ID 24IK0042 with funding from the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA),
the completed project had a total allocation of P150 million, with
an actual contract amount of P144,748,426.49.
The project included
construction of 518 meters of concrete slope protection with parapet
wall to shield against river overflow and soil erosion, installation
of 52 solar-powered LED roadway lights to ensure safety and
visibility along the bridge and adjacent road sections.
Led by Project Engineer
Engr. Emmanuel G. Jumagdao, this infrastructure serves a dual
purpose: protecting lives and property from flood risks while
enhancing transportation safety and mobility in the area. The
structure is expected to significantly reduce flood impact,
especially during the rainy season, and strengthen the city’s
disaster preparedness.
The project benefits
residents of Barangay San Andres and surrounding communities who
frequently use the Catbalogan Diversion Bridge, ensuring safer
travel and greater protection against natural disasters.
6 Communist-Terrorist
members neutralized, 7 firearms seized in Northern Samar clashes
By
DPAO, 8ID PA
June 4, 2025
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – Four Communist-New People’s Army Terrorists (CNT) were
killed and three firearms were seized during a series of clashes
with government troops in Barangay Nagoocan, Catubig, Northern Samar,
on June 3.
Approximately 30 armed
members from the Regional Guerrilla Unit and Sub-Regional Committee
Arctic under the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC)
were encountered during the Focused Military Operations.
The clash erupted
following reports from local residents about the presence of armed
men allegedly conducting extortion activities in the area.
Authorities are working to
identify the slain rebels and are coordinating with local officials
to notify their families.
On June 2, a day before
the firefight, troops from the 20th Infantry Battalion discovered a
cache of firearms and explosives in Barangay Roxas, Catubig, through
the revelations of former rebels identified as alias “In-In,” the
vice squad leader of Squad 1, Sub-Regional Guerrilla Unit,
Sub-Regional Committee Arctic, and alias “Bug-ot” of the Regional
Guerrilla Unit, EVRPC, who surrendered to the authorities and are
now under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration
Program (E-CLIP).
Accordingly, said firearms
were believed to have been stashed after an encounter at Barangay
Sulitan, Catubig, on November 5, 2024.
Among the recovered items
were two M14 rifles, one M16 rifles, one M653 rifle, three
improvised hand grenades, ammunition magazines, a bandolier, a
pistol holster and assorted medical paraphernalia.
Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel G.
Orio, commander of the 8th Infantry Division (8ID), praised the
joint efforts of the government and its partners in addressing the
root causes of insurgency and promoting peace in the region.
“When individuals who once
fought against us now stand with us, it changes the narrative about
our organization and our mission,” Orio said. “E-CLIP will continue
to serve as our mission enabler – offering not just holistic
integration and livelihood support, but a renewed purpose.”
He assured residents of
Northern Samar and the rest of Eastern Visayas of the military’s
unwavering commitment to peace and security, and encourage active
CTG members to avail and take advantage of the National Amnesty
Program offered by the government. They may coordinate with their
relatives or local chief executives to arrange for their safe
passage and formalize their application for amnesty.
“We in the government
forces, as your frontliners, assure you that we will never falter in
our mission,” he said. “We will not rest until every terrorist who
preys upon innocent Filipinos is brought to justice.”
Maj. Gen. Orio added that
despite the atrocities committed by the armed group, the four slain
individuals will be given a decent burial through coordination with
the local government of Catubig, in accordance with the Army’s
respect for human dignity and compliance to International
Humanitarian Law.
Farmers’ agony ends as
DAR inaugurates paved road
|
The
Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) turns over the 1.418
linear kilometer rehabilitated Barangay Sto. Niño-Barangay
New Kawayan road in Tacloban City.
(DAR-8 Photo) |
By
JOSE ALSMITH L.
SORIA
May 29, 2025
TACLOBAN CITY –
Residents of Barangay New Kawayan, a farming village north of this
city, expressed gratitude to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and
Agrarian Reform Secretary, Conrado Estrella III, for realizing their
long cherished dream, a concrete road.
On Thursday, May 22 this
year, Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Eastern Visayas Regional
Director, Atty. Robert Anthony Yu, led the inauguration and turnover
of the 1.4 linear-kilometer Barangay New Kawayan-Sto. Niño
farm-to-market road to the two remote villages for the maintenance.
Yu stressed that
construction of farm-to-market roads in remote farming villages is
among the priorities of the Marcos administration and one of the
nine point agenda of Secretary Estrella.
He disclosed that the
P21-million road project, implemented by the Department of Public
Works and Highways (DPWH), is funded under the agrarian reform fund
(ARF).
Welefortes Bodaña,
president of the Barangay 101 Vegetable Farmers Association shared
that this has been their long cherished dream.
She explained that during
rainy days before, the entire area becomes very muddy. One could
hardly walk because the mud is up to here, Bodaña added pointing to
her leg, just below the knee.
With the now concreted
road, farmers here will no longer carry on their heads their
harvests, or hire somebody to bring them to the check point, where
buyers await, said Bodaña. The buyers, with their vehicles, now come
to our farm to pick the vegetables, she exclaimed.
For Barangay Chairman,
Rafael Manhuyod, he sees this project to bring a significant
improvement in the quality of life, not only of the farmers but of
all the residents in this area.
About 289 farmers are
expected to benefit from this project.
International Day of Action
for Women’s Health:
Women’s
health is a right, not a privilege: Resist privatization, fight for
free quality healthcare!
By
GABRIELA Philippines
May 29, 2025
MANILA – On the
International Day of Action for Women’s Health, GABRIELA Philippines
joins women around the world in asserting that women’s health is a
fundamental right – not a commodity to be bought, sold, or denied.
In the Philippines, this right is under grave threat. The Marcos Jr.
administration continues a dangerous legacy of slashing budgets for
public health services while abdicating its constitutional
responsibility to protect the people’s welfare – passing this
mandate instead to private, profit-hungry corporations, who in turn
squeeze ordinary Filipinos dry with the high costs of health care.
The Philippine public
health system has been hollowed out by years of privatization under
policies that prioritize public-private partnerships over direct
public investment. This is clearly illustrated in the 2025 national
expenditure program of the government, which saw the health
department get a meager share of 4%. This translates to even lower
funding for public hospitals and several key health programs like
the Medical Assistance to Indigent and Financially Incapacitated
Program. Meanwhile, PhilHealth – an insurance company tasked to
implement the state’s sham Universal Healthcare Law, that has
instead diverted billions of funds to private hospitals – received
zero funding, which effectively passed onto contributors the state’s
duty to ensure coverage of indigents and indirect contributors.
This deliberate defunding
and privatization of health care have dire consequences, especially
for Filipino women who are the primary caregivers in their families
and communities. As costs of medical care soar, women bear the brunt
– paying out of pocket for basic health needs of the family,
maternal care, medicines, and hospitalization. 2023 data from the
government shows the top health financing scheme in the country
being “household out-of-pocket expenses” more than government
schemes and programs. Filipino women in the family also often delay
or forego check-ups due to unaffordable consultation and diagnostic
fees, leading to worsened conditions.
The particular impacts on
women are stark, brutal, and alarming. Maternal mortality remains
high, with about 59 maternal deaths per month in 2024 as reported by
the Center for Women’s Resources (CWR). Maternal services remain
scant and unaffordable, as there are only 3,238 birthing homes
across the country – more than half of which are private facilities.
CWR also reports that the Philippines holds the top spot in Asia
with the most breast cancer-related deaths, while the country holds
the 3rd highest incidence of the disease in the region.
Additionally, about 22 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer
daily – a horrific figure that hardly comes close to the actual
number of women with this disease, as CWR notes that only 1% of the
54 million women in the country was screened in 2023. CWR further
revealed that 65% of cancer cases in the country do not get
diagnosed until its late stages where survival rate drops
significantly.
In other words, state
abandonment and the domination of private interests in health care
harm and even kill already vulnerable sectors of Filipino women.
GABRIELA asserts that health care is a state responsibility, not a
business opportunity. We demand increased public funding for health
services that will benefit women and the majority of the poor
Filipino people. On this day of global action, we stand firm:
Filipino women and the toiling Filipino masses deserve free and
accessible quality health care. We will not be silent as our health
and our lives are put on the line for profit.
HWPL celebrates 12th
founding anniversary worldwide
Press Release
May 29, 2025
MANILA – In
celebration of the 12th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of
World Peace, international peace NGO Heavenly Culture, World Peace,
Restoration of Light (HWPL) brought together peace advocates,
educators, and youth from the Philippines and other countries
through a series of events promoting global unity and civic
participation in peacebuilding.
Held simultaneously in 94
locations across 61 countries, including major cities in the
Philippines, this year’s commemoration emphasized the shared
responsibility of governments and citizens in realizing sustainable
peace. The global movement traces its roots to May 25, 2013, when
HWPL Chairman Lee Man-hee proclaimed the Declaration of World Peace
before 30,000 youth in Seoul, calling for unity beyond borders
through peace education and civic action.
Among the highlights was
the Asia Peace Forum 2025 titled “Crash Landing on You:
Understanding the South and North Korea Divide, Pursuing Peace on
the Korean Peninsula” held online on May 24. Inspired by the popular
Korean drama, the forum engaged peace leaders and scholars from the
Philippines, South Korea, Indonesia, India, and Nepal in discussions
centered on the roots of the divide, the impact of war on citizens
from both sides, and the role of youth and civil society in building
a future of peace.
Keynote speakers included
Mr. Yoo Byeong-Chu, Chairman of Korean War Allied Nations Friendship
Association and Ms. Hyeju Park, Deputy General Director of HWPL
Asia.
"And I hope that peaceful
unification will be achieved so that the tragedy of pointing guns
among the same people will never happen again. I hope that
international law for the cessation of war will be established so
that our future generations will never experience the unspeakable
tragedy again," said Chairman Yoo.
In Metro Manila, the peace
celebration continued with the Poster Making Contest themed “The
Future of Peace and Prosperity,” which gathered 88 young artists
from the Philippines and Japan in a hybrid event. The awarding
ceremony was held on May 24 at Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Pasig.
Through the event, 13 promising young artists dedicated to promoting
peace through creative expression as part of the Peace in Arts and
Culture Group gathered. The group will hold regular sessions twice a
month, with plans for a collaborative mural project in the coming
months.
As an NGO with special
consultative status under the UN ECOSOC, HWPL continues to promote
peace through international law, interfaith harmony, and grassroots
peace education. “This movement is not just a celebration – it is a
call to action for citizens of all ages,” emphasized HWPL Chairman
Lee. “Together, we must become messengers of peace.”
Capping off the Philippine
commemorations, the municipality of Hinigaran, Negros Occidental
also joined the global celebration through an event titled “Bunghay
Reporma: Thanksgiving and Peace Declaration” with the theme
“Together in Love, Peace, and Unity – We Build a Prosperous
Hinigaran.” The community gave thanks for a peaceful democratic
process and expressed solidarity with HWPL’s vision by officially
declaring its commitment to peace. This heartfelt gathering is a
testament to how local unity and civic participation can connect
with global peace efforts, making Hinigaran a proud part of the
worldwide story of hope, harmony, and collective progress.
Communist terrorist
killed in armed encounter in Samar
By
DPAO, 8ID PA
May 29, 2025
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – A Communist terrorist was killed in an armed encounter
between the 87th Infantry “Hinirang” Battalion of the 8th Infantry
“Stormtroopers” Division against 20 heavily armed individuals in San
Jose de Buan, Samar, on May 29, 2025.
The
slain individual and the group are believed to be members of the
Regional Security Force of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party
Committee (EVRPC).
The encounter occurred
during a Focused Military Operation (FMO) and resulted in a
25-minute firefight. The Communist Terrorist Group withdrew from the
area, leaving behind the body of an unidentified member. The
military is currently working to establish the individual’s identity
of the deceased in order to provide a proper burial.
In addition to the
fatality, government forces also recovered several war materials,
including three long magazines, one short magazine of 5.56mm
caliber, 51 rounds of 5.56mm live ammunition, one bandolier, and
various subversive documents.
No government personnel
were killed or injured during the operation.
Lieutenant Colonel Kim M
Ilao, Acting Commanding Officer of the 87th IB, lauded the troops
for their decisive actions.
“We remain determined in
dismantling EVRPC and their exploitation of our communities," Lt.
Col. Ilao said.
Meanwhile, Major General
Adonis Ariel G. Orio, Commander of the 8th Infantry Division,
renewed his call for the remaining CTG members to surrender and
reintegrate into society. He also reassured that the government’s
Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) remains
open to those who wish to abandon the armed struggle.
“Lagi pong bukas ang
pintuan ng gobyerno para sa inyong pagsuko. Our intentions and
promises are clear. No further harm will come to those who will
choose to lay down their weapons and choose peace. Kasama at
maaasahan niyo po kami sa pagkamit ng mas mapayapang bagong Samar,”
said Maj. Gen. Orio.
PH 2025 elections did
not meet int’l standards for free, fair elections –Observer Mission
Report
Voter
disenfranchisement, vote-buying, systematic repression, and foreign
interference cited as key findings
By
ICHRP
May 27, 2025
QUEZON CITY – The
2025 Philippine midterm elections “did not meet international
standards for free and fair elections,” according to the final
report of the International Observer Mission (IOM) released today,
citing “grave and widespread violations” of human rights across the
country. The mission’s findings point to a confluence of factors
that severely undermined the integrity of the electoral process:
voter disenfranchisement, widespread vote-buying, systemic human
rights violations, the entrenched power of domestic political
dynasties, and the foreign military influence in local political
affairs.
“The rights of Filipinos
to vote freely and without coercion were compromised,” says IOM
Commissioner Lee Rhiannon. “The climate of fear, normalized
vote-buying and militarization that surrounded the elections
reflects a failure to uphold international democratic standards.”
The IOM’s conclusion is
based on weeks of intensive documentation by international field
teams deployed across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao during the
election campaign and on election day, May 12. Observers conducted
on-the-ground interviews with voters, poll watchers, campaigners,
local officials, and civil society leaders, while remote teams
tracked digital disinformation, overseas absentee voting, and media
coverage.
The comprehensive report
is the result of an independent international initiative that adopts
a rights-based approach to monitoring the elections. This was
organized by the International Coalition for Human Rights in the
Philippines (ICHRP) and launched in 2022.
For the 2025 mission, more
than 50 international human rights advocates took part, with field
Observers deployed to priority areas with histories of
election-related violence. The Mission partnered with local
watchdogs such as Kontra Daya and Vote Report PH, while remote teams
monitored digital disinformation, overseas absentee voting (OAV),
and voting irregularities abroad.
“Our findings point to a
widespread pattern of repression and vote-buying alongside threats
of foreign interference,” said IOM Commissioner Andrea Mann. “The
red-tagging of progressive candidates, vote-buying,
disenfranchisement, and militarization are not isolated problems.
These reflect a deeply compromised system.”
“Given the scale and
severity of these violations, we conclude that the 2025 Philippine
elections failed to meet international standards for free, fair, and
democratic elections,” Mann stated.
Voter Disenfranchisement,
Vote-Buying
“These elections violated
key articles of the International Covenant on Civil and Political
Rights, to which the Philippines is a state party,” said ICHRP
Global Council Chairperson Peter Murphy. The IOM Final Report
documented 545 cases of electoral violations, including vote-buying,
disenfranchisement, harassment, and even election-related killings
and disappearances. “These abuses fundamentally undermined the
rights of Filipinos to participate in free and fair elections,” he
added.
The Mission highlighted
the rampant voter disenfranchisement. Malfunctioning automated
counting machines (ACMs), ballots misread as overvotes, and
pre-marked or misprinted ballots disenfranchised thousands. COMELEC
failed to explain why the machines ran on a non-certified software
version, casting doubt on the integrity of the results.
According to the report,
the disenfranchisement extended overseas, where online registration
glitches and delayed pre-enrolment requirements led to a
historically low 18.12% voter turnout among OFWs, far below even the
usual participation rates. Workers and the urban poor were similarly
excluded, as May 13 was not declared a paid holiday, forcing many to
choose between voting and earning income.
Murphy also raised alarm
over the scale of vote-buying, calling it “scandalous interference
with the election.” The IOM alone, recorded 111 vote-buying
incidents, with COMELEC receiving 158 formal complaints but issuing
only minimal sanctions. Some party-lists, such as Ako Bicol,
reportedly offered up to 16,000 PHP (~289 USD) per vote. “Mass
poverty and entrenched inequality have enabled political dynasties
and business-funded candidates to distort electoral outcomes,”
Murphy stated.
He mentioned the
recommendations from the IOM report on electoral reforms, including
the adoption of a hybrid manual-automated voting system, addressing
the inaccessible OFW registration process, and the declaration of
election day as a paid public holiday.
Red-Tagging,
militarization undermine free elections
“The 2025 midterm election
failed to uphold the most basic democratic principle: the people’s
uncoerced right to choose their leaders,” said IOM Commissioner
Rhiannon. “The abuses by various arms of state power documented here
reveal the extent of the failed Filipino electoral process. These
abuses not only constitute electoral violations, they also
constitute violations of human rights and international humanitarian
law.”
Central to these
violations, she pointed out, was the systematic use of red-tagging,
which she described as "the most frequently reported violation."
There were 112 documented cases solely by the Mission, while a
staggering 1,445 cases were reported to the IOM local election
watchdog Vote Report PH. "It is used to smear reputations, deter
campaigning, and prevent people from voting," Rhiannon explained.
The Commissioner recounted
disturbing cases of red-tagging and intimidation: from tarpaulins
branding progressive candidates “NPA” and “terrorist” in Southern
Tagalog to the display of fake coffins marked with blood and names
of activist groups across the country. “In Western Visayas, soldiers
interrogated children as young as five. In Abra, the military handed
out ‘surrender papers’ in exchange for financial aid or a chance to
‘clear’ one's name,” she added. Rhiannon emphasized that these
abuses were not isolated but part of a “well-funded campaign
involving the police, military, and the National Task Force to End
Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).”
“The unchecked labeling of
progressive groups as insurgents has fostered a climate of fear,
suppressed political participation, and severely undermined
democratic space,” Rhiannon said.
Violation of national
sovereignty highlighted
IOM Commissioner Colleen
Moore pointed out the timing and scope of the U.S.-led Balikatan
military exercises, which overlapped with the Philippine 2025
midterm elections, as a major distortion of democratic space. “The
concurrent staging of large-scale war games with over 15,000 foreign
and local troops during an electoral campaign is not just poor
judgment. It is an outright violation of national sovereignty of
Filipinos,” Moore said.
She emphasized that the
exercises were “framed by government officials and
administration-aligned candidates as defensive maneuvers against an
imminent threat, but in reality, it contributed to manufacturing a
climate of fear designed to steer public opinion toward pro-U.S.,
pro-Marcos candidates.” According to the IOM report, this
convergence of militarization and electoral politics "compromised
the conditions necessary for a free and fair vote."
The IOM Commissioner noted
that candidates advocating an independent foreign policy were
vilified as “Beijing’s puppets,” while dissent was drowned out by
the state narrative equating opposition to the exercises with
disloyalty. "The international community must recognize that ongoing
military cooperation, such as Balikatan, directly contributes to
political repression and distorts civic discourse," Moore stated.
She referenced recommendations from the report calling for an end to
foreign military activities and security aid to the Philippines
during electoral periods and beyond.
Observer mission
recommendations
The report issued a
comprehensive set of recommendations aimed at addressing deep-rooted
structural issues in the country’s electoral and governance systems.
The report emphasizes that many of these recommendations echo those
made in its 2022 findings. This is evidence, it states, of “the
persistence of systemic issues that continue to shape electoral
processes in the Philippines.”
Among its primary calls
are the adoption of a hybrid election system that allows for both
manual and automated vote verification, the urgent passage of the
long-delayed Anti-Dynasty Bill, and measures to ensure
nonpartisanship and transparency of the COMELEC. The IOM also
highlighted the need for legal reforms that would empower voters to
report violations such as vote-buying without fear of retaliation.
The IOM extended its
appeal to the international community, calling for sustained
scrutiny of the Philippine electoral process and human rights
situation. It specifically calls for the abolition of the NTF-ELCAC,
describing it as a “central apparatus of red-tagging, intimidation,
and political repression.”
The IOM urges the
Philippine government to criminalize red-tagging, outlaw the use of
private armies, repeal the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, and rejoin
the International Criminal Court (ICC) as essential steps toward
restoring democratic space and accountability. These measures, the
report states, are vital to protecting civil society, enabling
peaceful political participation, and rebuilding public confidence
in the country’s democratic institutions.
As Commissioner Moore
emphasized, “Free and fair elections cannot occur in an environment
where voters are manipulated by fear, opposition voices are
silenced, and foreign powers shape public discourse.” The
Commissioners underscored that their report amplifies the voices of
Filipinos already bravely speaking out, and reflects a shared call
to uphold every people’s right to choose their leaders free from
fear, coercion, or foreign interference.
DPWH Samar 2nd DEO
conducts cascading of Document Tracking System (DoTS)
Press Release
May 26, 2025
CATBALOGAN CITY –
In its continued effort to promote transparency and enhance
efficiency in government transactions, the Department of Public
Works and Highways (DPWH) Samar 2nd District Engineering Office (DEO)
successfully conducted a one-day cascading session of the Document
Tracking System (DoTS) on May 23, 2025.
The activity was led by
budgetary personnel who previously attended the DoTS training and
was participated in by selected job order employees and
representatives from various sections and units, including the
offices of the District Engineer and Assistant District Engineer.
The program commenced at
8:00 AM with an opening message from Ms. Mizpah Lyn A. Ko, Chief of
the Administrative Section, who emphasized the importance of DoTS in
fast-tracking document processing and fostering accountability
across all sectors of the office.
Mr. Romeo A. Julaton,
Administrative Officer IV, served as the main resource speaker. He
provided an overview of DoTS based on recent issuances, highlighting
the system's functionality, user roles, and required compliance
measures, including the penalties for delays. Mr. Julaton detailed
the application of DoTS in civil works, consultancy, and procurement
of goods, providing clear guidelines, process flows, and sample
documents for each type of transaction.
The afternoon session
continued with the discussion on procurement of goods and proper
documentation procedures, followed by insights into transaction
termination and modification. Mr. Lloydwin Lobreño, IT staff, was
also acknowledged for his technical role in supporting DoTS
operations.
The session officially
concluded at 4:38 PM, reinforcing the DPWH Samar 2nd DEO’s
commitment to digital innovation and service transparency.
PAGPARIG-ON: 8ID
showcases resolute strength in massive military exercise
By
DPAO, 8ID PA
May 21, 2025
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – Aimed at enhancing combat readiness, crisis response
capabilities, and multi-layered staff coordination in enhanced
Territorial Defense Operations (TDO) and Humanitarian Assistance and
Disaster Response (HADR), the 8th Infantry "Stormtroopers" Division
flexed its full strength and operational precision during the launch
of Exercise “PAGPARIG-ON” on May 21, 2025.
“PAGPARIG-ON,” a Waray
word meaning “to strengthen,” lives up to its name by projecting
power and tactical proficiency in both natural and human-induced
crises.
At the core of this
exercise is the synchronized movement of battalions across strategic
points in Eastern Visayas, designed to test the rapid deployment and
response capabilities of Joint Task Force Storm’s combat units
through a live simulation of combat operations and humanitarian
assistance. Tactical units maneuvered with precision, simulating the
full spectrum of operations with direct involvement from the 8ID
battle staff and planners in the staff exercise (STAFFEX) down to
the battalion level. This was geared toward honing crisis action
planning and command decision-making within the context of
territorial defense operations.
“Through PAGPARIG-ON, we
can broaden our reach and strengthen our defensive posture across
our area of operations. As an integral part of your dedicated Army,
we are committed to serving the nation and remain steadfast despite
limited HADR capabilities by providing essential support and
immediate response to areas affected by natural disasters or even
human-induced conflicts such as war,” said Lieutenant Colonel Joemar
N. Buban, assistant chief of staff for civil-military operations,
8ID, and spokesperson for the PAGPARIG-ON exercise.
Moreover, the PAGPARIG-ON
exercise incorporates the reserve force of the Ready Reserve
Battalions under the 8th Regional Community Defense Group,
Philippine Army, to test their readiness to complement frontline
units not only in times of conflict but also during peacetime HADR
efforts.
Lt. Col. Buban also
emphasized that the exercise is more than just exposure: “This is
how we build ironclad strength and interoperability among our units.
This is us, the Stormtroopers, gathering strength and ensuring the
war is won before it begins.”
NMP reaffirms QMS with
continued ISO 9001:2015 Certification
Press Release
May 16, 2025
TACLOBAN CITY – The
National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) has successfully maintained its
ISO 9001:2015 Certification following the successful completion of
the 1st Surveillance Audit conducted by SOCOTEC Certification
International Philippines at its main office in Tacloban City and
liaison office in Makati City on May 16, 2025.
The audit team, composed
of Capt. Arcel T. Andres and Capt. Nicanor B. Altares, assessed
NMP’s quality procedures, manuals, and systems documentation against
the ISO 9001:2015 standard. Utilizing the 3P Methodology – People,
Paper, and Physical Environment – they evaluated the agency’s
compliance with its Quality Management System (QMS) through
interviews with process owners and internal auditors, review of
documented information, and inspection of facilities and equipment.
Capt. Nicanor Altares
commended the NMP for its exemplary records management practices and
lauded the process owners for their comprehensive knowledge and
understanding of their respective areas. He also expressed gratitude
for the full cooperation extended by the process owners throughout
the audit activity.
Executive Director Victor
A. Del Rosario conveyed his appreciation to the external auditors
from both NMP Manila and Tacloban for their meticulous scrutiny and
attention to detail during the evaluation of NMP's processes and
operations. He emphasized NMP's unwavering commitment to pursuing
excellence, acknowledging that there is always room for improvement,
and reaffirmed the organization's dedication to continually
enhancing the performance of its services.
Following a comprehensive
external audit, SOCOTEC Certification Philippines, Inc. formally
acknowledged NMP’s successful implementation of the ISO 9001:2015
QMS standards. The audit confirmed NMP's adherence to international
standards, reflecting the organization's commitment to excellence in
maritime training and research.
Based on the audit
findings, SOCOTEC recommended NMP for continued ISO 9001:2015
certification, reinforcing the institution's dedication to
delivering high-quality services and its ongoing pursuit of
organizational improvement.
This recognition
underscores NMP's role in advancing the competencies of Filipino
seafarers and contributing to the maritime industry's development
through rigorous quality management practices.
As an agency committed to
the continuous development of Filipino seafarers, maintaining the
ISO 9001:2015 certification for its Quality Management System (QMS)
reaffirms NMP’s dedication to excellence and organizational
effectiveness. This achievement underscores the agency’s ongoing
relevance and capability in fulfilling its mandate to enhance the
competencies of Filipino seafarers and to conduct impactful research
that supports the advancement of the maritime industry.
