CAMPAIGN AGAINST NPA. The newly-minted commanding general of the 8th Infantry Division, Major Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio, has pledged to eradicate the region’s insurgency problem.
(PHOTO COURTESY)

TACLOBAN CITY-Major General Adonis Ariel Orio, the newly appointed commander of the 8th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, has vowed to bring a decisive end to the insurgency problem in Eastern Visayas.

Orio made this commitment during the change-of-command ceremony on November 7, 2024, at the 8ID headquarters in Catbalogan City, Samar, where he succeeded Brigadier General Perfecto Peñaredondo, who was holding the post in an acting capacity.
Peñaredondo returned to his post as the division’s assistant commanding general and is set to retire March 12, 2025.

In his address, Maj. Gen. Orio underscored his resolve to achieve a decisive victory against insurgency through adherence to the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ strategies.

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,” Major Gen. Orio said.

He also urged his troops to carry out their duties with dedication and integrity, noting 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,” Maj. Gen. Guinid remarked.

Major Gen. Orio is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Tanglaw-Diwa” Class of 1992.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)