CATBALOGAN CITY, Philippines -Major General Adonis Ariel Orio, Commander of the 8th Infantry Division, commended the operating troops of the 19th Infantry Battalion (19IB) for their successful operations in Northern Samar that led to the neutralization of key New People’s Army (NPA) leaders.
In an awards ceremony held on December 9, 2024, at the 19IB Headquarters in Barangay Opong, Las Navas, Northern Samar, Maj. Gen. Orio presented three Silver Cross Medals and one Military Merit Medal with Bronze Spearhead Device to soldiers who played a key role in the operation. The mission, conducted on December 2, 2024, resulted in the neutralization of seven NPA members, including alias Polly, the Secretary of the Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Emporium. The operation also led to the seizure of high-powered and low-powered firearms and other war materials.
In addition, seven personnel received Military Merit Medals, with interim Gold Cross Medals, for their role in the successful neutralization of alias Jino, a member of Squad 2 of the Sub-Regional Guerilla Unit (SRGU), SRC Emporium; alias Jacob, a former member of Squad 2, Platoon 1, SRC Arctic; and alias Durok, the SRGU leader. The operation also resulted in the capture of additional war materials.
According to Capt. Jefferson M. Mariano (INF) PA, Chief of the Division Public Affairs Office, Maj. Gen. Orio highlighted the significance of the operation, describing it as a major blow to insurgent forces in the region. He praised the troops for their dedication and bravery, stressing that the successful operation was a vital victory in the government’s ongoing efforts to combat insurgency.
“The community relies on us, so let us continue our efforts, sustain our gains against the insurgents, and work towards achieving total victory for peace and progress in the community,” Maj. Gen. Orio stated.
