THE Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division saluted its soldiers wounded in a recent clash with communist rebels in Barangay San Isidro, Las Navas, Northern Samar.
8ID commander Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio visited the troops on Aug. 4 at the hospital where they are currently recovering.
The soldiers sustained injuries during a military operation that resulted in the death of eight members of the New People’s Army’s Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee and the capture of ten high-powered firearms.
Orio pinned the Wounded Personnel Medal to the injured troops and led a moment of silence in honor of Cpl. Arcel Sicnoy, who was killed in action during the operation.
“Though we came at a cost of losing a life, your courage and sacrifice exemplified the highest ideals of a Filipino soldier, and of a Stormtrooper. The 8ID’s victory is yours as well. As your commander, I honor you not as mere soldiers, but as patriots whose selfless commitment to service strengthened our pursuit of lasting peace in Eastern Visayas,” Orio told the troops.
He assured the soldiers and their families, including Sicnoy’s, of sustained financial and moral support from the command.
Orio also acknowledged the role of local communities in supporting the operation, emphasizing that civilian cooperation remains key in dismantling insurgent networks.
“As we march toward peace and development, we remain committed to the sacrifices of our soldiers and the people we serve and protect. Rest assured that we will deliver more successes, and we will not rest until every shadow of the EVRPC is put to an end,” Orio stressed.
