Thursday, August 11, 2011

8ID celebrates IHL Day



Camp Lukban, Catbalogan, Samar – On August 8, 2011, the 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division, Philippine Army commemorated the International Humanitarian Law Day in a simple yet meaningful way during the Monday Flag Raising Ceremony Openiano Field, Camp General Vicente Lukban, Catbalogan, Samar. It was spearheaded by Major General Mario F Chan, the Division Commander.

“International Humanitarian Law (IHL) is a set of rules which seek, for humanitarian reasons, to limit the effects of armed conflict. It protects persons

who are not or are no longer participating in the hostilities and restricts the means and methods of warfare. It is also known as the law of war or the law of armed conflict.”

Colonel Virgilio M Espineli, the Assistant Division Commander and at the same time Human Rights Officer, read the message of IHL in front of the soldiers to strictly respect, adhere, abide, and support the provisions of the IHL in connection to their duties and functions in the Armed Forces of the Philippines. He also led the AFP Soldier’s Pledge of Reaffirmation and Support for the IHL. The soldiers of the 8ID are now more aware of their commitment to strictly observe and respect the provisions of IHL.

Likewise, during this celebration, the donning of ranks for the newly promoted Enlisted Personnel of the Division was also conducted. Deserving promoted personnel of the different units of the division expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the promotion they received.###