CAMP GENERAL VICENTE LUKBAN, CATBALOGAN CITY – The 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division, Philippine Army marked its 30th founding anniversary on Wednesday (August 1) with this years’ theme, “Kabulig han Molupyo ha Kamurayawan, ug Pag-atiman han Kalibungan Pakadto han Kauswagan,” this August 1, 2018 with Secretary Roy A. Cimatu of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources as guest of honor and speaker.
The event included a wreath-laying ceremony in honor of the fallen comrade-in-arms and in recognition of their heroism and ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of peace in Eastern Visayas and in Mindanao. The ceremony was attended and witnessed by four of 8IDs Former Division Commanders, retired Major Gen. Rufo de Vera, retired M/Gen Glenn J. Rabonza, Usec. Arthur Tabaquero, the current presidential adviser on military affairs and retired M/Gen. Mario F. Chan, head executive assistant, DENR, soldiers and their loved ones, officers, civilian employees, and invited guests.
Sec.Cimatu also led the awarding to deserving personnel who have shown meritorious achievement in combat and non-combat role that significantly contributed to the overall success of the 8ID’s mission.
In addition, civilian stakeholders who also contributed to the accomplishments of your Army in Eastern Visayas were also awarded with plaques of recognition during the said occasion.
Among the awardees were Atty. Bonifacio G. Uy, regional director, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Region 8; Marivel Sacendoncillo, regional director, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 8; Melba J. Arino, Land Management Officer III, CENRO, Pambujan, Northern Samar; Atty. Eunice U. Babalcon, municipal mayor of Paranas, Samar; and Elena G. Piczon.
Sec. Cimatu in his message expressed that, “Today, the Stormtroopers carry a legacy as partners of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in ensuring the environmental protection as deputized agents in the National Greening Program. Anti-illegal logging, enforcement of other related laws of the environment, and preservation of ecological balance and biodiversity.”
“I wish you all the best. I congratulate each and everyone for a job well-done. Happy 30th Anniversary to you all. Damo nga salamat at mabuhay tayong lahat!” Cimatu concluded.
The DENR Secretary also viewed 8ID’s photo display as well as PENRO Samar’s information booth prior to granting interviews with the media. He and his party capped their visit by joining the Stormtroopers in the traditional boodle fight.
