TACLOBAN CITY – The 8th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army conducted a large-scale military exercise dubbed “Pagparig-on” on Wednesday, May 21, across Eastern Visayas to strengthen its combat readiness, crisis response capabilities, and coordination in both territorial defense operations (TDO) and humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR).
The exercise featured synchronized battalion movements in strategic locations, testing the troops’ rapid deployment and field coordination. It also included a Staff Exercise (STAFFEX), designed to sharpen planning and decision-making under crisis scenarios.
Lt. Col. Joemar Buban stressed the importance of the exercise in enhancing the division’s defensive posture while improving its ability to respond swiftly to natural calamities and security threats.
“This exercise ensures that our units, both active and reserve, are capable of complementing each other in times of disaster or conflict. It’s about readiness, resilience, and unified response,” he said.
Also participating were the ready Reserve Battalions, whose integration into the drills tested their preparedness to support frontline forces when mobilized.
The 8ID reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the people of Eastern Visayas and reinforcing national security. Through “Pagparig-on”—a Waray term meaning “to strengthen”—the division aims to build cohesive, mission-ready units capable of responding effectively to any challenge.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
