TACLOBAN CITY – With the 2025 national and local elections fast approaching, the 8th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army based in Catbalogan City has launched Task Force HOPE-Eastern Visayas (HOPE-EV) to ensure a peaceful, secure, and orderly electoral process across the region.
During the activation ceremony on Tuesday, Feb. 11, Colonel Arlino Sendaydiego, commander of Task Force HOPE-EV, emphasized the military’s crucial role in protecting the integrity of the elections.
“Our team is committed to supporting the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and other agencies in preventing any unlawful acts that could disrupt the democratic process. We will remain vigilant against emerging threats,” he Sendaydiego said.
Task Force HOPE-EV will prioritize security in communist insurgency-affected areas, particularly around polling stations.
It will also assist Comelec, the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in election-related security operations.
Additionally, the task force will work closely with local government units (LGUs) to ensure proper election preparations.
Also, it will help secure critical election infrastructure, promote voter education, enforce safety and health protocols, and coordinate with local and national stakeholders to guarantee a smooth electoral process.
Major General Adonis Ariel Orio, the commanding general of the 8ID, reminded Task Force HOPE-EV members to uphold the highest standards of integrity and impartiality.
“We are here to protect and serve our fellow citizens as they exercise their right to vote. I urge you to carry out your duties with the utmost respect, dedication, and fairness. Our mission is to uphold the integrity of this democratic process,” he said.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA/ROBERT DEJON)
