TACLOBAN CITY — The Police Regional Office 8 (PRO-8) was recognized by the Philippine Army for its outstanding contributions to joint peace and security efforts in Eastern Visayas during a ceremony at the 93rd Infantry Battalion Headquarters in Brgy. Aguiting, Kananga, Leyte, on Saturday, November 29, 2025.
In the morning program, 19 PRO 8 personnel, represented by PCol. Michel Palermo, PMajor Reymund Quinagutan, and PCpt. Harvey Braden Sobebe, received the Military Merit Medal from B/Gen.Pompeyo Jason Almagro, brigade commander of the 802nd Brigade.
The awards recognized their participation in a September 29, 2025, joint military-police operation in Brgy. Cogon, Carigara, Leyte, which resulted in the seizure of an M16 rifle, ammunition, a hand grenade, blasting caps, propaganda materials, and other supplies.
In the afternoon, Palermo accepted the “Sundang ng Banglitan” Award on behalf of PRO 8 during the Blessing and Unveiling of 93IB Facilities & Stakeholders Recognition. The award symbolizes resilience, integrity, and the steadfast partnership between the 93rd Infantry Battalion and the police, honoring PRO 8’s critical role in supporting the battalion’s missions.
“This award reflects not only our past achievements but also the strong operational synergy between PRO 8 and the Philippine Army,” Palermo said. “Our partnership ensures that law enforcement and community protection go hand in hand. Together, we continue to dismantle threats to peace and order and strengthen the safety of the communities we serve.”
The event was also attended by BGEN Arsenio D.C. Sadural, PA, Assistant Division Commander of the 8th Infantry Division, along with other military officials and stakeholders, reaffirming the enduring collaboration between PRO 8 and the Army in advancing regional security.
(LIZBETH ANN A.ABELLA)
