TACLOBAN CITY (PIA) — The 87th Infantry Battalion, the newest activated infantry battalion of the Philippine Army, was created in the heart of the Philippine Army (PA)’s 8th Infantry Division last week to further strengthen the Internal Security Operations (ISO) in Eastern Visayas.

Dubbed the "Hinirang" Battalion which saw first light in Eastern Visayas, the PA unit will soon be deployed in certain areas within the region.

Its activation has been carried out through a simple yet meaningful ceremony in front of the Command grandstand with the PA officers, enlisted personnel and civilian employees as witnesses.

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

"Don't fail me," were the concise and direct-to-the-point instructions of Tabaquero to Lt. Col. Madroñal, as he (Tabaquero) handed over to the latter the unit’s color.

Tabaquero’s statement underscore the Commander's desire to keep in cadence with the Division's sustained military operation in attaining decisive victory against local terrorist groups and guarantee credible and peaceful elections on May 10 in the region.

In his short assumption speech, Madroñal encouraged his troops to work hard in attaining their objectives. He gave his assurances not to let down those who have high expectations in his selection.

In his message, Tabaquero said that history has been made with the birth of the new battalion.

“Whether good or bad, once it (history) is written, there is no more time to erase it,” he remarked. "The only thing needed now is to make sure that your mission is accomplished as best as you can; it is up to you to further advance your vision and mission, to achieve your goals despite the existence of limitations.”

He added that "with the advent of the 87IB, the sons and daughters of Samar-Leyte will be more secure and 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."