TACLOBAN CITY — Seventy-seven retiring members of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) Active Auxiliary in Eastern Visayas received more than P9.6 million in separation gratuity from the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division as recognition for their years of service in peace and security operations across the region.
The Division CAFGU Active Auxiliary Office released a total of P9,613,187 in financial assistance to the beneficiaries through their respective infantry battalions.
Of the amount, P3.73 million was distributed to 30 CAAs under the 93rd Infantry Battalion in Kananga, Leyte; P2.68 million to 22 CAAs of the 43rd Infantry Battalion in Lope de Vega, Northern Samar; P1.78 million to 14 CAAs under the 63rd Infantry Battalion in Basey, Samar; and P1.4 million to 11 CAAs assigned to the 46th Infantry Battalion in Calbiga, Samar.
The 8th Infantry Division said 73 of the beneficiaries had rendered at least eight years of service, while the remaining members served between five and seven years.
The military said the separation gratuity recognizes the contributions of CAAs in supporting military operations, securing communities, and assisting government efforts to maintain peace and order, particularly in geographically isolated and conflict-affected areas.
The program is intended to provide financial support to retiring CAAs as they transition back to civilian life and pursue livelihood opportunities for their families.
The 8th Infantry Division said the initiative forms part of the government’s continuing efforts to honor the service of CAAs and support their reintegration into civilian communities.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
