New top Army official in Eastern Visayas vows to end insurgency

INQUIRER FILES

TACLOBAN CITY — The newly appointed commander of the 8th Infantry Division (ID) of the Philippine Army has vowed to end the insurgency in Eastern Visayas.

Major General Adonis Ariel Orio made this commitment during the change-of-command ceremony at the 8ID headquarters in Catbalogan City, Samar on Nov. 7.

He succeeded Brigadier General Perfecto Peñaredondo, who held the post in an acting capacity.

Peñaredondo returned to his post as the division’s assistant commanding general and is set to retire on March 12, 2025.

In his address, Orio underscored his resolve to achieve a decisive victory against insurgency.

He stressed that while military operations are crucial, collaboration with civil society, local government leaders, peace partners, and the community is equally important.

“I strongly believe that we cannot solve our longstanding insurgency problem through military solutions alone. A proactive and effective whole-of-nation approach is essential to achieving our goal,” Orio said.

He also urged his troops to carry out their duties with dedication and integrity, saying that public trust is a critical factor in fostering peace and community development.

The ceremony, presided over by Major General Leodevic Guinid, acting commanding general of the Philippine Army, highlighted the trust placed in Orio’s leadership.

“Your success in diminishing the influence of the CPP-NPA-NDF during your time at the 4th Infantry Division showcases your strategic expertise and dedication to ending the Communist Terrorist Group,” Guinid said.

Orio is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Tanglaw-Diwa” Class of 1992.