8th ID troops deployed to Mindanao

TACLOBAN CITY, Philippines – The 8th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army based in Catbalogan City had deployed one of its battalions to Mindanao to help the continuing fight of the troops there against members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and the Justice for Islamic Movement.

Colonel Demy Tejares, 8th ID deputy commander, during the send-off ceremony held at the Catarman Airport the other day, conferred a plaque of appreciation recognizing the services of the 34th Infantry Battalion in Eastern Visayas, as its soldiers left for Mindanao.

Lieutenant Colonel Edgar Delos Reyes, commander of the 34th IB, received the citation in behalf of his men. He also reported the readiness of his battalion for the Mindanao mission before boarding the C-130 plane of the Philippine Air Force.

Tejares, in his speech, urged the soldiers to be disciplined at all times as they enter new areas and engage with new people of peculiar culture, which he said must be respected.

“I also served in Mindanao and I know the challenges that await you as soon as your battalion set foot on those grounds. Don’t forget to be steadfast and make the 8th ID (Stormtrooper) proud of you,” said Tejares.

The 34th IB will be stationed in Maguindanao province will be stationed in the province of Maguidanao, to support the ongoing military operations against the BIFF, JIM and other lawless elements that have been up in arms against government.