by Miriam G. Desacada
Catbalogan City–The Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry (Storm Troopers) Division, with headquarters based in Catbalogan City, Samar has a new commander, Brigadier General Adones Ariel G. Orio replacing the retiring Major General Camilo Z. Ligayo.
Orio, a native of Cagayan de Oro City in Misamis Oriental, came from his preceding post as commander of the 402nd Infantry Brigade based in Butuan City, Agusan del Norte.
Major Gen. Leodevic Quinid, acting head of the Phil. Army, presided the change of command ceremony held at Camp General Vicente Lucban, the 8ID headquarters located in Catbalogan City, Samar.
In his speech, Orio focused on the duty of the Army to maintain peace in the region during the coming national and local elections, and with explicit message that government troops must be apolitical during the elections.
He said, “We must prepare to execute our duty, with unwavering resolve, ensuring that every citizen, with our joint operation, exercise the right to vote without intimidation or disruption. We shall remain vigilant, as guardians of the democratic process, against any disruptive efforts by the communist terrorist groups.”
Quinid, for his part, commended all the commanders of the division, past and present, for their outstanding accomplishments and works to make the military a reliable partner of the country’s citizens.
“Our country really owes a lot to our soldiers sacrificing in the field. And so with this, I want to acknowledge the commanders whose leadership and guidance make the 8ID a vital force of the Philippine Army.” —Miriam G. Desacada