Gen. Velarmino assumes as new commander of 8th ID

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 13): Gen. Velarmino assumes as new commander of 8th ID
 
Brigadier Gen. Jet Velarmino assumed as the new commander of the 8th Infantry (Stormtrooper) Division (8ID) based in this city succeeding M/Gen. Gerardo Layug who bid adieu to government service on Thursday.

Witnessed by M/Gen. Samuel Narbuada, Inspector General of the Philippine Army, Layug relinquished his post to Velarmino in a ceremony held at the Camp Lucban here.

In his farewell message, Layug proudly announced that during his term, no military personnel was reported or complained of violating human rights. In fact, the division was awarded as the best Army division in the country in 2012.

He added the implementation of social development program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) through social integration program was intensified. This resulted to the good coordination between civilian, government offices and the military and apprehension of rebel camps in several parts of the region mostly in Samar province.

On the other hand, Velarmino assured that the gains of the 8ID during the term of his predecessor will be sustained.

He added that his core target is to ensure the implementation of the AFP internal peace operation “Bayanihan” and to support the Army Transformation Roadmap to ensure that the country will have a world class military.

“I envision that under my charge, soldiers of the 8th Infantry Division will always keep the genuine spirit of Bayanihan alive,” said Velarmino.

He added that military in the region will continue pursuing effort with partners like local government officials, local leaders and citizen; provide enabling mechanism that will enhance military troop’s capability in the performance of their duty and make the division responsive to the concern of each unit.

The new commander added that his administration will also be responsive to the program on climate change and in pursuit of good governance.

The 8ID has three military brigades and nine battalions that provide security to Eastern Visayas and parts of Region 7.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=565421