New Army infantry battalion born in Region 8

Catbalogan City -- The 87th Infantry Battalion, the newest activated infantry battalion of the Philippine Army was born in the heart of the Army's 8th Infantry Division on April 15 to further strengthen the Internal Security Operations (ISO) in Eastern Visayas.

Dubbed as the "Hinirang" Battalion which saw the first light in the east will soon be deployed in some areas within the region after its activation in the morning of April 15, to advance the Army's concern for peace and development.

The activation was carried out through a simple yet meaningful ceremony in front of the command grandstand with the officers, enlisted personnel and civilian employees as witnesses.

Major General Arthur Tabaquero, the 8ID's commanding general, piloted the activation and the installation of its first Acting Commanding Officer, Lt. Col. Leo Lorenzo Madroñal who is a native of Iligan City.

"Don't fail me," were the few but meaningful words of Major General Tabaquero to Lt. Col. Madroñal, as he handed over the unit color.

These statements underscore the Commander's desire to keep in cadence with the Division's sustained military's operation in attaining decisive victory against the local terrorist groups and to guarantee a credible and peaceful May 2010 elections.

In his short assumption speech, Lt. Col. Madroñal encouraged his troops to work very hard for according to him, there are lots of things to work on and relaxation is a sort of less priority.

He also gave his assurance to maintain the high expectation given to his leadership for being selected as the first to command the newly-born battalion.

Meanwhile, Major General Tabaquero said in his message that another history is yet to uncover. Whether good or bad, once it is written, no more time to erase.

"The only thing needed to make your mission is accomplished is your best? the issue on scarcity is always present, it is only up to you to further advance your vision and mission to achieve your goals with the presence of limitation?" the good general added.

"With the advent of the 87IB, the sons and daughters of Samar-Leyte will be more secured and more assured that the 8ID's effort in aiding other stakeholders in nation building will be doubled and the campaign against local terrorist groups will be strengthened for the ultimate attainment of peace towards development." vowed Major General Tabaquero.