by Miriam G. Desacada
Tacloban City–Soldiers of the Catbalogan (Samar)-based 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division (8ID) of the Philippine Army were sent posthaste to the Bicol region to assist authorities and local government units there in disaster response efforts such as evacuation, rescue and recovery operations, and distribution of relief goods.
The troops, belonging to 8ID’s Emergency Response Company, traveled with their equipment to provide critical assistance to the Bicol Region, which was devastated by typhoon Kristine’s assault of heavy rains, powerful winds, widespread floods, and severe destruction of houses and communities.
The mobilization of disaster response took place days after the 8ID’s change of command ceremony, which was the installation of Brigadier General Perfecto Peñaredondo as the acting division commander replacing the retiring commander, Major General Camilo Z. Ligayo.
Peñaredondo said the 8ID stands fully prepared to disaster response, as the troops are equipped with specialized rescue gear, transport vehicles, and essential medical supplies to ensure that affected people receive immediate aid and support.
The 8ID is also working in close coordination with the Office of Civil Defense and local disaster response agencies to mitigate the effects of the typhoon on vulnerable areas, prioritizing safety, security, and the swift delivery of aid.
“As we deploy, our focus remains on safety – for both our troops and the communities we serve. We will work closely with local authorities, relief organizations, and other stakeholders to ensure a unified response,” Peñaredondo said.
Before his designation to head the 8ID, Peñaredondo was the assistant division commander of 8ID, and commanded the 803rd Infantry Brigade. A member of the PMA “Sambisig” Class of 1991, he held several key positions in field and unit offices.
Ligayo, for his part, was the 8ID head since 2022 and is now retiring after almost 35 years in military service. He is a member of the PMA “Makatao” Class of 1989. —-Miriam G. Desacada