President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. visited the 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division of the Philippine Army at Camp Lukban in Catbalogan City, Samar, on September 25, 2026, commending soldiers for their dedication in securing Eastern Visayas and pledging the national government's continued backing for their mission.
During the visit, the President — in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) — met personally with officers and enlisted personnel of the 8th Infantry Division (8ID), recognizing their commitment to protecting communities and supporting peace and development efforts across the region.
Marcos Tells Troops to Press On With Their Strategy
In a Talk to Troops address, President Marcos underscored the importance of soldiers not only in confronting security threats but also in helping establish lasting peace at the community level. He used the occasion to hear directly from 8ID's men and women about the security situation and the operational challenges they face on the ground.
The President delivered a clear directive to the troops to maintain their current approach, citing visible results.
"Whatever it is that you are doing, kung anuman ang inyong nagiging strategy, kung anuman ang nagiging tactics ninyo, ituloy ninyo dahil maganda ang nakikita nating resulta. We will continue to do that and the government is here standing behind you in anything that you need," President Marcos said.
Troops Working Alongside Communities and Local Governments
The President's visit comes as the Philippine Army continues to operate in coordination with local government units, law enforcement agencies, and communities throughout Eastern Visayas. According to the AFP, the goal of this coordinated effort is to maintain a secure environment where government services, livelihood programs, infrastructure projects, and economic activities can reach a broader population.
Marcos also acknowledged the personal sacrifices made by military personnel and their families, reaffirming the government's commitment to strengthening the AFP's operational capabilities and supporting soldier welfare.
8ID Sees Visit as Reaffirmation of National Support
For the Stormtroopers, the presidential visit carried symbolic and operational significance. According to the 8th Infantry Division, the occasion served as a direct reaffirmation from the national government that the troops' efforts and sacrifices in Eastern Visayas are recognized and supported at the highest level of command.
The 8ID stated it remains committed to maintaining operational readiness, protecting communities, upholding its core values, and working with civilian stakeholders toward lasting peace and development throughout its area of responsibility.
Why This Matters
President Marcos's direct engagement with frontline troops signals sustained political and institutional support for the AFP's peace and development mission in Eastern Visayas, a region with a history of security challenges. The visit reinforces the government's stated position that military operations must go hand in hand with the delivery of services and economic opportunities to communities. For the soldiers of 8ID, the Commander-in-Chief's public endorsement of their strategies and sacrifices carries weight for both morale and operational continuity.
Photo credit: Photo courtesy of the Armed Forces of the Philippines