8ID sends-off one battalion to Mindanao

From Samar News (Apr 23): 8ID sends-off one battalion to Mindanao

By DPAO, 8ID PA
April 23, 2015

 CAMP VICENTE LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry (Stormtrooper) Division, Philippine Army sent one of its Battalions to Mindanao in a send-off ceremony conducted at Catarman Airport on March 20, 2015.

In a simple but meaningful program, the 34th Infantry Battalion was given a plaque of appreciation in recognition of their valuable services rendered to the people of Eastern Visayas. The Assistant Division Commander, Colonel Demy T Tejares, presented the Plaque to Lt Col Edgar Delos Reyes, the Army Battalion’s Commanding Officer as he received the award in behalf of the members of the 34th Infantry Battalion.

Along this line, Lt Col. Delos Reyes reported for completeness of his battalion which was immediately followed by inspection of troops by the Guest of Honor prior to boarding the Air Force C-130 plane.

Col. Tejares in his remarks urged the troops to be disciplined at all times for they will assume new areas and engaged new people with peculiar culture. He urged them to put primary in respecting the culture of the people they are going to deal with as well as their rights as embedded in our constitutions.

“I also served in Mindanao and I know the challenges that await you as soon as your battalion set foot in those ground. Don’t forget to be steadfast and make the 8th Infantry (Stormtrooper) Division proud of you”, said Tejares.

The unit will be stationed in the province of Maguindanao, to support the ongoing AFP operations against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter (BIFF), Justice for Islamic Movement (JIM) and other Lawless elements which had been undermining, the peace and development efforts of the Aquino administration.

http://www.samarnews.com/news2015/jan/d293.htm