Additional Army Artillery Unit deployed to 8ID, strengthens campaign against remaining CTGs in Eastern Visayas

By DPAO, 8ID PA
July 30, 2026

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry "Stormtroopers" Division, Philippine Army, welcomed the deployment of the Light Deployable Battery (LDB) of the Artillery Regiment, Philippine Army, during an arrival ceremony held at Headquarters 803rd Infantry Brigade, Camp Sumuroy, Barangay Dalakit, Catarman, Northern Samar on July 26, 2026.

The deployment of the Light Deployable Battery marks another significant enhancement in the operational capabilities of the 8th Infantry Division as it intensifies focused military operations to neutralize the remaining members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Eastern Visayas.

The newly deployed artillery unit is equipped with the Italian Pack Howitzer (IPH), a lightweight, highly mobile artillery system designed to provide responsive and accurate indirect fire support in rugged and challenging mountainous terrain. Compared to the conventional 105mm Howitzer, the Italian Pack Howitzer can be easily disassembled, transported, and reassembled, allowing troops to provide timely and accurate indirect fire support even in remote and mountainous areas where insurgents often seek refuge.

Its mobility and firepower will enable maneuver units to conduct more effective combat operations while ensuring the safety of troops and civilians. The deployment also enhances the operational flexibility of the Joint Task Force Storm as it sustains pressure against the remaining CTG remnants across the region. It demonstrates the Army's resolve to decisively end the local communist armed conflict in the region.

"The deployment of the Light Deployable Battery significantly enhances the operational capability of the 8th Infantry Division. Its mobility and firepower will provide our maneuver units with timely and accurate artillery support, enabling them to conduct more effective operations against the remaining Communist Terrorist Groups. This additional capability reinforces our commitment in protecting our communities and sustaining the gains of our peace and security efforts.”

The 8th Infantry Division assures the public that the deployment of the Light Deployable Battery is intended to strengthen legitimate military operations against armed threat groups while strictly adhering to International Humanitarian Law (IHL), Human Rights, and the Rule of Law.