CARABAO HEAD - Hardworking, industrious with bold and strong determination to fight the enemies of the state anytime and place.
BLOODED BOLO - Indigenous weapon used by the Filipino warrior in his firm resolve to defend the country’s liberty and patrimony.
BLOODED BOLO - Indigenous weapon used by the Filipino warrior in his firm resolve to defend the country’s liberty and patrimony.
GOLDEN LAURELS - Connotes peace, honor, success and excellence which are the exquisite goals of each soldier.
CIRCULAR DESIGN WITH BLACK BOLDER - The unit is ever ready and dependable to attain its mission whatever odds it wll face, even at the risk or danger of losing one’s limb or life.
34TH IB - THE UNIT WHERE WE BELONG.
Unit History
1. Pursuant to General Orders Number 342, Headquarters Philippine Army dated 10 February 1974, the 34th Infantry Battalion was activated effective 18 February 1974 under 1st Infantry Division, Philippine Army stationed at Fort Magsaysay, Palayan City.
2. Pursuant to Section 1 General Order Number 65, Headquarters Philippine Army dated 27 February 1980, 34TH Infantry Battalion was relieved from 1ST Infantry Division, Philippine Army effective 01 March 1980 and reassigned 5TH Infantry Brigade (SEPARATE), Philippine Army stationed at Camp Servillano Aquino, San Miguel, Tarlac.
3. Pursuant to Section II General Order Number 65, HPA dated 27 February 1980, 34th Infantry Battalion, 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army was placed under the Operational Control (OPCON) of the regional unified command (RUC) VIII stationed at Camp Picardo, Dolores, Eastern Samar effective 01 March 1981.
4. Effective 28 July 1989, 34th Infantry Battalion was placed under the operational control (OPCON) of 802nd Infantry Brigade, 8th Infantry Brigade (SEPARATE), Philippine Army.
5. Effective 08 august 1991, 34th Infantry Battalion was placed under the Operational Control of (OPCON) of 803rd Infantry Brigade, 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army.
6. Effective 19 April 2005 SOT Coy organized by the Div, one (1) Coy from 20IB and one (1) platoon from 63IB was placed OPCON to this Battalion to intensify the ISO operations being conducted by the Div in the province of western Samar.
7. Effective 19 September 2005. the 34th Infantry Battalion is placed under operational control of 801st Infantry Brigade subsequently releasing Sot Coy and “A” Coy,20IB to be placed OPCON to 14IB.
CHANGES IN STATION:
18 Feb 1974 -The 34th Infantry (RELIABLE) Battalion was activated at Fort Magsaysay, Palayan City.
02 Oct 1974 -The Battalion left Fort Magsaysay for Lamitan, Basilan.
08 Oct 1974 -The Battalion arrived in Lamitan, Basilan and relieved place the 23rd Infantry Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, PA.
15 Nov 1976 -The Battalion moved from Lamitan, Basilan and proceeded to Jolo, Sulu.
07 Dec 1976 - The Battalion left Tugas, Jolo, Sulu and relieved in place the 3rd Infantry Battalion in Taglibi, Patikul, and Sulu.
19 Mar 1978 - The Bn left Taglibi, Patikul, Sulu and returned to its former AOR at Lamitan, Basilan.
21 Jul 1978 -The Battalion established Battalion Headquarters in Isabela, Basilan.
17 Nov 1978 - After a long massive combat operation, 34IB displaced from Basilan and moved back to Jolo Sulu and established CP in Bato-bato, Indanan, Sulu.
22 Nov 1978 - The Battalion left Bato-bato, Indanan, Sulu and moved to Silangkan, Parang, Sulu.
11 Mar 1979 -The Battalion moved from Silangkan, Parang, Sulu and
established Battalion Headquarters in Tiptipon, Panamao, and Sulu.
16 Nov 1980 - The Battalion was recalled to Headquarters 5th Infantry Brigade (SEPARATE) PA, Camp Gen Servillano Aquino, Tarlac where heroes welcome was accorded to the troops.
07 Jan 1981 - The Battalion underwent re-training at Camp Gen Servillano Aquino, Tarlac.
17 May 1981 - The bn was hauled to Sangley point, Cavite.
26 May 1981 - The Bn Left Sangley point, Cavite for Samar aboard LST 505.
29 May 1981 - The troops arrived at the shoreline of Dolores, Eastern Samar relieving in place the 52nd PC Bn.
18 Dec 1986 -The Battalion moved from Dolores, Eastern Samar and established Battalion Headquarters in Borongan, Eastern Samar.
11 May 1988 - The Bn moved from Borongan, Eastern Samar and established its Bn Hqs in Brgy Lokilokon, Wright, Samar.
14 Sep 1988 -The Bn Transferred to Leyte and established Command Post in Anahawan, Southern, Leyte.
08 Jan 1989 - The Battalion moved from Anahawan, Southern Leyte and proceeded to Brgy Malinao, Mahaplag, Leyte and established command post thereat collocated with the cp of 43IB.
05 May 1989 - The Battalion again moved from Mahaplag, Leyte to occupy a new AOR in Southern Leyte. It established its Battalion Command Post in Brgy Patong, Hinunangan, Southern Leyte.
28 Jul 1989 - The Battalion established temporary CP in Bagacay, Hinabangan, Samar.
15 Oct 1989 - The Battalion established its Bn Hqs in Brgy Buenavista, Quinapondan, Eastern Samar.
21 Dec 1989 - The Battalion established its bn Hqs in Calapi, Motiong, Samar.
08 Aug 1991 - The Battalion displaced from Calapi, Motiong, Samar and established its Battalion Headquarters in Brgy Trinidad, Calbayog City.
26 Mar 1996 - The Bn established its ACP in Brgy Erenas, San Jorge, Samar.
09 Jan 1999 - The Battalion displaced from Brgy Trinidad to establish Command Post in Brgy Erenas, San Jorge, Samar.
24 Aug 2001 - The Battalion displaced from Brgy Erenas to establish CP in Brgy Blanca Aurora, San Jorge, Samar,
27 Jan 2002 - The Battalion displaced from Brgy Blanca Aurora, San Jorge, Samar back to former Bn Hqs in Brgy Erenas, San Jorge, Samar.
PAST SIGNIFICANT ACTIVITIES AND ACCOMPLISHMENT:
The 34th Infantry Battalion was activated on February 1974 with the nucleus of its personnel and equipment drawn from the first Infantry Division, Philippine Army. MAJ GEN MANUEL V CACANANDO (RET), then a LT COL, BECAME the first Battalion Commander when he assumed command of the unit on 20 May 1974. The unit initially had a total strength of thirty four (34) Officers, one hundred forty two (142) Enlisted Personnel and four hundred twenty (420) trainees, which underwent four (4) months rigid Molave Warfare Training.
A few months later, on 020300 October 1974, the troops left Fort Magsaysay and arrived at their first destination on 08 October 1974 in Lamitan, Basilan where they relieved in place the 23rd Infantry Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, PA. The Battalion had its baptism of fire when Bravo Company stationed at Campo Tres was harassed and subjected to automatic fire by undetermined number of enemy.
Following the methodology of the campaign set by the AFP, the 34IB carried a two (2) fold strategy of right hand and left hand efforts thru massive combat operations and civil assistance operations. This proved to be very effective because in a period of just one (1) year the whole municipality of Lamitan was rehabilitated. A total of approximately 256 square kilometers of agricultural land was likewise reclaimed from the hands of the rebels/terrorists: barrio Lahi-lahi, Singkapan, Tablas, Bato-bato, Buton and Dugaa were liberated from the terrorists. Barangay schools were reopened and temporary school buildings were constructed and regular transports were restored.
In grateful appreciation of these accomplishments, the provincial board of Basilan passed a resolution commending the Officers and Men of 34th Infantry Battalion for a job well done in the pacification campaign.
Pursuant to Section III General Orders number 138 HIID dated 01 Feb 76 LT COL ALBERTO LUCERO 0-90715 (INF) PA (Now Deceased) was designated Commanding Officer in acting capacity until 01 May of same year when he was designated as the Commanding Officer of the unit. The assumption of command of LT COLONEL LUCERO carried with it the expansion of the area of responsibility of the unit which included the whole town of Tuburan covering a total land area of 265 square kilometers. LT COLONEL LUCERO organized a reinforced composite Company to clear suspected enemy positions in some critical areas of the AOR.
In the succeeding months of cease-fire accord from February 1976 to November 1976, the unit busied itself in civic action with the end view of winning the hearts and minds of the people and instill thrust and confidence of the citizenry to the duly constituted government in Basilan. Frequent dialogues with the people were held and medical and dental aids were extended. Evacuees were rehabilitated and people were encouraged to increase their food production. In coordination with the department of education, culture and sports and Civic Minded Citizens in the area, the unit succeeded in the reopening of classes to ten (10) schools in erstwhile critical areas for the school year 1976-77 in the municipality of Lamitan. The Battalion was accredited with the construction of infrastructure projects during the initial stage of the regular operation of the Municipality of Lamitan.
On 15 November 1976 after its successful two years and one month peace Campaign in Basilan. The unit moved to Jolo for major operations with units of 3/1 Bde, IID, PA. Though a number of officers and men had been reassigned or terminated, “Esprit De Corps” of the Battalion under the leadership of LT COL LUCERO had been well maintained. Arriving Jolo wharf aboard LST 95, the troops were welcomed by COL ANGEL KANAPI (Now Retired BGEN), 3/1 Bde Commander and his staff together with high ranking officials of the province of Sulu. The Battalion immediately proceeded to Brgy Tugas, Patikul, Sulu. On 17 November 1976 the Battalion received OPLAN “KRIS” of the Brigade which subsequently signaled the conduct of combat operations. Initial encounter of the Battalion was at vicinity Kandiamak where one rebel was killed and one m16 with m203 was recovered by the troops. On 28 November 1976, the fiercest encounter of the 34IB against the terrorist was fought at Luba Hill an estimated 70-80 terrorists perished due to superior tactics and bravery shown by the members of the unit.
on 07 December 1976 the 34IB relieved in place the 3rd Infantry Battalion at Taglibi, Patikul, Sulu. Taglibi became the unit’s station from 07 December 1976 to 19 March 1978. With the cessation of hostilities by terrorists against government troops from 20 January 1977 to 09 October 1977, the unit confined itself in civic action, in coordination with provincial and national agencies, bringing the government closer to the hearts of the people of Patikul and particularly at Taglibi where the bulk of evacuees were concentrated.
From 01 November 1977 to 15 March 1978, 34IB figured in 27 intensive encounters against the enemy at vicinity Luba Hill, Bakung and Kaunayan complex all of Patikul, Sulu resulting to 45 KIA and WIA on the enemy side.
On 19 March 1978 after one year and four months in Jolo the unit moved to Basilan to rejoin 2/1 Brigade. On its way to its former AOR (Lamitan, Basilan) Via Tongkil, Sulu it met stiff resistance at Baguindan, Tipo-tipo, Basilan. There it fought against enemy in a fierce gun battle that lasted for three (3) days, from 28 – 30 March 1978. Inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy side. Then in May of 1978, the unit spearheaded other Battalions of 2/1 Brigade for the successful rescue of the 53 passengers of the ill-fated M/V Don Carlos who were made hostages by terrorists at Tuburan, Basilan.
On 21 July 1978, the 34IB was transferred to Isabela with the municipalities of Maluso and Lantawan all of Basilan province as its area of responsibility. It tremendously involved itself in various community projects like construction of school buildings, feeder roads, improvement of water system and housing units, which were all aimed at alleviating the living condition of the masses. It also conducted civic actions on Medical and Dental services. On land reform, the unit made representation with the “PACLAP” and the bureau of lands for the release of land titles to a number of settlers at barrio Calvario, Isabela, Basilan. It also participated with other units of 2/1 Brigade in clearing operations in the entire province.
On 17 November 1978, the unit, after eight (8) months of successful Campaign in Basilan was directed to move again to Jolo. Before proceeding to its new AOR, however, it conducted police operations at the municipalities of Indanan, Parang and Talipao all of Sulu Province.
On 01 March 1980, 34IB was relieved from 1st Infantry Division, PA and reassigned to 5th Infantry Brigade (SEPARATE) PA. For a period of almost eight (8) months, the Battalion conducted a series of offensive operations augmenting other neighboring units in restoring peace and order.
The Officers and men of the unit stayed in Mindanao for six (6) years and twenty eight (28) days. Indeed, it was a costly campaign because during the period, 151 precious lives were lost, 385 were wounded and five (5) were declared missing in action.
On 16 November 1980, this unit was transferred back to Luzon and was accorded a hero’s welcome. The awarding of medals and decorations to deserving personnel highlighted the welcome ceremony.
On 26 February 1981, COL LUCERO was relieved and LT COL DE LEON was designated as Commanding Officer of the unit. On that same day, the Battalion left Sangley point for Dolores, Eastern Samar relieving in place the 52nd PC Battalion. The 34th Infantry Battalion, PA was still in Dolores when MAJ EDMUND PACADA was designated as acting Commanding Officer relieving LT COL DE LEON. After one (1) month, MAJOR PACADA was relieved by COL LUCERO and his return to the unit proved to be productive both in combat and civic activities. But due to his lingering illness, COL LUCERO died on September 16 1985 and was succeeded by LT COL ROLANDO S PESTAÑO.
On 18 December 1986, the unit established its Battalion Headquarters in Borongan, Eastern Samar relieving in place the 2/8 Infantry Brigade (SEPARATE), pa. The unit under COL PESTAÑO incurred minimal losses but inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy.
On 11 May 1988, LT COL PESTAÑO was relieved as Commanding Officer and subsequently succeeded by LT COL ALEXIS ALDEGUER. After the turn over of Command the Headquarters was transferred from Borongan to Lokilokon, Wright Samar relieving in place 14ib, 8th Infantry Brigade (SEPARATE), PA. On 07 July 1988, LT COL ERNESTO MAGPANTAY took over the command vice LT COL ALDEGUER.
On 13 September 1988, after almost eight (8) years and three months of successful insurgency campaign in the Provinces of Samar and Eastern Samar, 34th Inf Bn left for Leyte island. The unit was placed under the Operational Control (OPCON) of 803rd Infantry Brigade and established its temporary Headquarters at Anahawan, southern Leyte on Sept 1988. On 09 Jan 1989, the Battalion acted as a mobile force and moved its Hqs to malinao, mahaplag, Leyte then to Brgy Patong, Hinunangan, Southern Leyte on 06 May 1989.
on 28 July 1989, after eleven (11) months in the provinces of Leyte and southern Leyte, 34th Inf Bn was redeployed to Samar Island and placed under the operational control (OPCON) of 802nd Inf Bde. After one (1) week sojourn at Hqs 802nd Inf Bde, the battalion moved to Eastern Samar and established its Hqs at Brgy Buenavista, Quinapondan, Eastern Samar. two (2) months and one (1) week later on 15 Oct 1989, the battalion excluding one (1) rifle company was redeployed in San Jose De Buan and hinter barangays of Paranas, Motiong and Jiabong all of Western Samar, due to noted RGU concentration in the tri boundaries of Western Samar, Northern Samar and Eastern Samar provinces. The Battalion was injected deep into the enemy guerilla base with its headquarters located in Brgy Caranas, Motiong, Samar.
On o3 Nov 1989, LT COL MAGPANTAY was replaced by LT COL FELINO N TRISTE.
On 21 Dec 1989, the unit established its Bn Hqs in Calapi, Motiong, Samar. While in Brgy Calapi, the unit received a resolution of appreciation from the municipality of Motiong, Samar in recognition for its invaluable accomplishments in civic action and the restoration of peace and order in the area.
On 01 May 1991, LT COL TRISTE was relieved and subsequently, LT COL ADOLFO E PANTE was designated as acting commanding officer of the unit.
On 08 Aug 1991, the Battalion moved its Hqs by foot from Brgy Calapi, Motiong, Samar to Brgy Trinidad, Calbayog City relieving in place 62nd Inf Bn and took responsibility of the latter’s AOR composed of the City of Calbayog
and six (6) municipalities namely: Tarangnan, Pagsangjan, San Jorge, Gandara, Sta Margarita and Matuguinao with a total of three hundred sixty-six (366) Barangays.
Following the changes of AOR, the unit has embarked on a massive combat/clearing operations in its new AOR as a prelude to the intensification of SOT operations as envisioned in AFP Campaign Plan LAMBAT BITAG. The said combat operation have resulted to the neutralization of nine (9) regular CTs, six (6) of whom were KIA and the other three were captured, and the recovery of eight (8) HPFAs and six (6) LPFAs.
The unit launched a series of SOT operations targeting all affected Barangays in the AOR. By the middle of 1992, the unit was able to de-influence thirty (30) affected Barangays in the AOR which accounted for a total of two thousand seven hundred forty-nine (2,749) CPP/NPA regulars, Subversive Mass Activist (SMA) and supporters/sympathizers voluntarily returning to the folds of the law. The conduct of the said SOT operations also necessitated the implementation of various CMO Projects as complementary activities. The remarkable accomplishment of the unit in counter insurgency operations (COIN) was cited by various municipalities in the AOR most notably the City of Calbayog and the municipality of Matuguinao where most of the surrenderees came from.
Due to the continuous conduct of sot operations and sustained implementation of CMO projects in the AOR, the following year, the unit was again able to neutralize seventy five (75) regular TDS, sixteen (16) of whom were KIA and the rest were surrenderees, recovered seventeen (17) HPFAS and six (6) LPFAS including various communications equipment, medicine and voluminous subversive documents of high intelligence value.
To earn the trust and confidence of the people in the new AOR, the unit launched a fitting campaign “The Araw-Araw Kaibigan Campaign” with the end result of befriending people in the AOR including those who tried to destroy the image of the unit right after its deployment in the AOR. Much of the accomplishments of the unit could be attributed to this campaign and it was a major accomplishment, which earned for the unit the award of 8ID’s best battalion in CMO in 1993.
In June 1993, LT COL ADOLFO E PANTE was relieved as commanding officer of 34ib, 8id, and replaced by COL ANTONIO C SANTOS JR GSC (INF) PA Pursuant to Sec II, GO NR 158 H8ID, PA dated 19 June 1993.
The scheduled turn-over of coin functions from DND-AFP to DILG-PNP in 1997 as envisioned by executive order 216 brought considerable pressure on the Battalion to fast track its Counter-Insurgency Campaign (COIN). COL SANTOS JR at the helm, the unit aggressively pursued its intensified campaign of flushing out remaining TDS and their mass bases in the AOR following the quadratic concept involving intelligence, combat CMO and internal security operations in order to reduce its internal security condition to a level conducive to PNP take-over.
For its well orchestrated operations, the unit was able to de-influence the remaining twenty-three (23) affected Barangays in the AOR, neutralize two thousand two hundred thirty-six (2,236), regular TDS, mass activist/supporters/sympathizers which resulted in the recovery of nine (9) HPFAS and nine (9) LPFAS including several equipments and voluminous subversive documents with high Intel value. In support to the governments campaign on loose FAS as implemented by OPLAN “PAGLALANSAG”, the unit was able to recover twenty-five (25) loose FAs issued to vigilante group sometime in early eighties (‘80s). Complementing the unit’s efforts to combat operations were the numerous intelligence and CMO operations launched which resulted to major accomplishments, among others, the capture of three (3) members of a robbery gang with one (1) m16 rifle, the neutralization of three (3) members of hold-up gang and the recovery of their loot amounting to four thousand pesos (4,000.00) and other valuables, identification of personalities of illegal loggers, the solution of the case in the killing of one (1) Venus Lacaba of Gandara, Samar, the arrest of a robber with his loot in the amount of fifty thousand (50,000.00) pesos and two (2) suspects for kidnapping and murder and the neutralization of seventy nine (79) NPA regulars thru negotiations.
To maintain a high state of readiness among personnel, the unit regularly conducts various training and seminars which include among others, the following: basic Intel collection seminar refresher course, CAA Basic Military Training, Basic Tradecraft Seminar, Capability Building Seminar, Preventive Driving and Vehicle Maintenance, Tinapa Making, Commando Training, Basic Computer Training and Mortar Gunnery Refresher Course.
Likewise, to keep pace with its increasing administrative requirements, the unit had taken the initiative to modernize its own information system by procuring four (4) sets of computers.
Such accomplishments have earned the unit the following awards: Best Infantry Battalion for Calendar Year 1993 in 8ID, Best Battalion in 8ID in 1994 and Best Battalion in Intelligence in 8ID in 1994.
Then in June 1995, COL ANTONIO C SANTOS JR was relieved and reassigned to Mindanao to assume a higher post. Replacing him was his long time Executive Officer MAJOR DOMINADOR V MACALINTAL SR (INF) PA.
LT COL MACALINTAL SR continued as aggressively as ever the programs of the 8ID drawing big support from the populace in the AOR whom he had befriended during his incumbency as ex-o of the battalion and from the support of the ever-loyal members of the “RELIABLE” Battalion.
Taking advantage of the generally peaceful situation in the AOR, the unit had taken a strong preoccupation in Civil Military Operations (CMO) and training. It had spearheaded various activities in medical and dental civic action program with the help of the different LGUS and NGOS which benefited a total of seven thousand three hundred twenty three (7,323) patients who were treated free; helped the DECS and LGUS in their literacy campaign with the completion of 13 ALPS classes conducted in various parts of the AOR which benefited some four hundred thirty eight (438) illiterates; and assisted the DENR, LGAS and LGUS in their anti-illegal logging campaign with the confiscation of forty one thousand nine hundred twenty nine (41,929) board feet of illegally cut lumber. The unit had also complemented its drive against illegal logging activities by planting tree in the AOR with a total of sixteen thousand two hundred forty five (16,245) seedlings.
In keeping pace with the demand of professionalizing the AFP, the unit had busied itself with the conduct of intensive skills trainings/seminars, which benefited the majority of its personnel including some of their dependents.
In combat, the unit had participated in numerous combat operations initiated by Higher Headquarters and also conducted several of its own in its effort to neutralize the remaining DTS in the AOR. These combat operations resulted to the neutralization of 13 high ranking DTS. The capture/surrender of 14 high powered f/as and 23 low powered f/as/several rounds of ammunition and other war materiel’s and voluminous subversive documents of high intelligence value.
on 09 January 1997, upon the direction of Higher Headquarters, the unit transferred its Battalion Headquarters from Brgy Trinidad, Calbayog City to Brgy Erenas, San Jorge, Samar.
Eight months after the transfer, on 01 Sept 1997, LTC RUBEN O RAFAEL 0-7087 INF (GSC) PA took over the reigns of the Battalion Pursuant to Sec II, go nr 423 H8ID, PA dated 26 Aug 97 vice LTC DOMINADOR V MACALINTAL SR 0-106190 (INF) PA.
The assumption of LTC RAFAEL as commanding Officer of the unit ushered a new dynamism into the growing responsibility of the Battalion. Under his Command, the unit underwent the 2nd Battalion retraining conducted from 20 Oct to 19 Jun 98 and the CAA Refresher Training from 04 Nov to 02 Dec 98 to prepare itself for bigger challenges ahead. After the retraining, the unit immediately plunged into action. Following the concept of the AFP’S Campaign Plan “KAISAGANAAN” (lo i42-92), the unit concentrated on CMO and combat operations supported by intelligence operation by utilizing one company as strike force serving at the same time as Disaster Response Unit (DRU) and two (2) rifle companies as territorial defense forces in charge of CMO and intelligence. This strategy has provided the unit flexibility in addressing a highly mobile enemy by deploying troops anywhere in the area of responsibility whenever the need arises. But barely 4 months into action, on 01 Nov 98, the unit’s company a was reassigned to 63IB, a newly activated Battalion of the 8id. Replacing the said company were 65 personnel coming from the different units of 8ID.
Unfazed by this massive change in the organization, the unit, nevertheless, aggressively pursued its mission participating in 19 Higher Headquarters directed operation and conducting 29 Battalion initiated operations and 51 company operations, including eight (8) CIVAC operations, four (4) Army CARES operations, five (5) ALPS operations, two (2) MSOT, two (2) ACCORD operations and tree planting activities which resulted to the following: recovery of 7 HPFA’s, 11 LPFA’s and 2 landmines, neutralization of three (3) regular DT’s and camps, neutralization of one (1) hold-up gang with the capture of its leader and confiscation of their f/as and the subsequent filing of criminal case against their members, capture of three (3) more criminals and subsequent filing of criminal cases against them in court, confiscation of eight thousand four hundred nineteen (8,419) board feet of illegally cut lumbers, identification of the names of illegal loggers in the Area of Responsibility; five thousand seven hundred forty four (5,744) beneficiaries of CIVAC; seven thousand seven (7,007) beneficiaries of Army CARES Program; one hundred seventy one (171) civilian beneficiaries of alps operations and six thousand seven hundred (6,700) seedlings planted.
On Logistic, the unit was able to accomplish the following: construction of additional EP barracks, construction of basketball court, improvement of Motor Pool, construction of ammo dump, improvement of Bulwagan and the admin building, maintenance of its vehicles to 100% serviceability status.
As a result of these accomplishments the battalion received the following awards: the 13th WSCAA Company as the best CAA company in the AFP for 1998 and the best CAA company in VISCOM for 1998; Letter of Commendation from LT GEN RAUL S URGELLO, AFP, CG PA dated 24 Nov 95 as one of the three best battalions in 8id for 1998 and several commendations from civil authorities in the Area of Responsibility.
Higher Headquarters responded generously to the collective efforts of the unit’s personnel by promoting three hundred twenty five (325) of the four hundred ten enlisted personnel of the unit, in just two years, broken down as follows: four (4) Msgt, eleven (11) Tsg, thirty three (33) Ssg, seventy (70) Sgt, one hundred eighteen (118) Cpl and eighty nine (89) Pfc.
Then on 05 September 1999, LT COL ESPERIDION O REBADOMIA replaced LT COL RAFAEL as Commanding Officer. He continued aggressively programs and plans that the Battalion is undertaking. His leadership was also geared towards befriending the community by which a series of operations was conducted and also jive with the conduct of formal dialogue with the populace in the far flung areas emphasizing on organizing and mobilizing the people there at. During his time, the Battalion grandstand was constructed near the basketball and tennis court.
After six months, LT COL REBADOMIA was replaced by then MAJ SONNY L GADOT (INF) GSC PA on the 25 of April 2000. It was in this period that a series of seminar and training was conducted for officers and men of the battalion. His period was the time that re-conceptualization of the “LAMBAT BITAG” was realized wherein the campaign plan “uproot the weeds” was conceptualized. The plan was focus on the deliberate and systematic conduct of TRIAD operation making San Jose de Buan as the constriction area. A series of MSOT, ALPS and ACCORD operation was then conducted at target influenced Barangays which brought about ISO gains for the Battalion. community oriented activities was also enhance by constant dialogue with the LGUs and NGOs in the AOR. It was in this period that the Battalion adopted three hectares of land at Barangay Mahayag, Catbalogan, Samar in coordination with the PBSP for reforestation project. During the evaluation of the national DECS office for best Literacy Program for CY 1999-2000, the Battalion ALPS Program was recognized and awarded as one of the most outstanding literacy program in national level. It was in this period that the area coordination center was being initiated by the Battalion to LGUs in the AOR. On the celebration of the Division Anniversary last 30 July 2001, the Battalion was then adjudge as the best performing Battalion in the field of administration and operation Division wide and got the division streamer award.
With the government all out campaign against secessionist movement in Mindanao during the period, the higher headquarters needed the troops of 63rd Infantry Battalion to be redeployed. On the month of April 2000 the Battalion took Calbayog city from 63rd Infantry Battalion as additional AOR. It was this time that realignment of line companies was carried out.
with the new concept of the higher headquarters of moving the troops nearer to the enemy, the Battalion CP was then established at Brgy Blanca Aurora, San Jorge, Samar on the 24th of August 2001 making the previous CP at Erenas, San Jorge as RCP.
on 08 Jan 02, LTC SANNY GADOT INF (GSC) PA was transferred to HPA and LTC ROMEO A VELASCO 0-112693 (FA) PA his Bn Ex-O assumed the position as OIC, after 23 days LTC VELASCO transferred to h8id, pa and was replaced on 01 Feb 02 by LTC ROMEO L GAPUZ O-8327 INF (GSC) PA as Battalion Commander. COL GAPUZ conducted sustained internal security operations in the central portion of Western Samar to neutralize the whole of central front Samar - 1 (CFS-1), Central Front Samar – 2 (CFS-2) and Seccom Diego of Front Committee 1 (F1) which resulted to the recovery of 15 HPFAs and 18 LPFAs and neutralization and surrender of CTs – thirteen of enemy were KIA one of whom is Carlito Salingsing @ Terado Secretary of Secom Dawa and CO of Linti Platoon and capture of enemy encampments and subversive documents with high intelligence value. Likewise, his principles in civil military operations brought about by well coordinated support to the local government units through the successful conduct of 10 army Literacy Patrol System (ALPS) classes with a total of 206 graduates resulting to the unit being adjudged as the second placer “most outstanding” National Literacy Awards in three (3) consecutive years from 2002, 2003 and 2004 which was instrumental in placing the 8th Infantry Division in the National Literacy Conference Hall of Fame. And also the conduct of twenty eight (28) Special Operation Team (SOT) to affected Brgy in CFS1 & F1 to 1 SO gains of the Battalion.
on 03 Jan 05, LTC WILSON LEYVA INF (GSC) PA replaced COL ROMEO GAPUZ INF (GSC) PA Commanding Officer transferred to HCENTCOM. He continued aggressive TRIAD operation with the implementation of Battalion IMPLAN SLUMDUNK focusing clearing and sot operations at Catbalogan, Jiabong and Motiong complex. Then after 3 months MAJ NORBERTO M ORBASE (OS) PA his Bn Ex-O assumed as acting co for 16 days while he was on leave. On 08 April 05 LTC EDITO M NISNISAN INF (GSC) PA assumed the post as the new Battalion Commander. LTC NISNISAN continued sustained Internal Security Operations (ISO) in Battalion AOR. During his incumbency as the Battalion Commander of 34th Infantry (RELIABLE) Battalion: thirteen (13) Battalion initiated operations, two thousand five hundred sixty three (2,563) Small Unit Operations, thirty four (34) SOT operations and two (2) CIVAC were conducted within the Battalion AOR which resulted to the recovery of four (4) HPFAs, sixty (60) LPFAs and discovery of six (6) enemy encampments. On 19 Sept 05, LTC EDITO M NISNISAN was relieved as commanding officer of 34IB, 8ID, and was replaced by LTC GLORIVINE R DIDA INF (GSC) PA which at present is the Commanding Officer of the “RELIABLE” Battalion.
2. Pursuant to Section 1 General Order Number 65, Headquarters Philippine Army dated 27 February 1980, 34TH Infantry Battalion was relieved from 1ST Infantry Division, Philippine Army effective 01 March 1980 and reassigned 5TH Infantry Brigade (SEPARATE), Philippine Army stationed at Camp Servillano Aquino, San Miguel, Tarlac.
3. Pursuant to Section II General Order Number 65, HPA dated 27 February 1980, 34th Infantry Battalion, 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army was placed under the Operational Control (OPCON) of the regional unified command (RUC) VIII stationed at Camp Picardo, Dolores, Eastern Samar effective 01 March 1981.
4. Effective 28 July 1989, 34th Infantry Battalion was placed under the operational control (OPCON) of 802nd Infantry Brigade, 8th Infantry Brigade (SEPARATE), Philippine Army.
5. Effective 08 august 1991, 34th Infantry Battalion was placed under the Operational Control of (OPCON) of 803rd Infantry Brigade, 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army.
6. Effective 19 April 2005 SOT Coy organized by the Div, one (1) Coy from 20IB and one (1) platoon from 63IB was placed OPCON to this Battalion to intensify the ISO operations being conducted by the Div in the province of western Samar.
7. Effective 19 September 2005. the 34th Infantry Battalion is placed under operational control of 801st Infantry Brigade subsequently releasing Sot Coy and “A” Coy,20IB to be placed OPCON to 14IB.
CHANGES IN STATION:
18 Feb 1974 -The 34th Infantry (RELIABLE) Battalion was activated at Fort Magsaysay, Palayan City.
02 Oct 1974 -The Battalion left Fort Magsaysay for Lamitan, Basilan.
08 Oct 1974 -The Battalion arrived in Lamitan, Basilan and relieved place the 23rd Infantry Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, PA.
15 Nov 1976 -The Battalion moved from Lamitan, Basilan and proceeded to Jolo, Sulu.
07 Dec 1976 - The Battalion left Tugas, Jolo, Sulu and relieved in place the 3rd Infantry Battalion in Taglibi, Patikul, and Sulu.
19 Mar 1978 - The Bn left Taglibi, Patikul, Sulu and returned to its former AOR at Lamitan, Basilan.
21 Jul 1978 -The Battalion established Battalion Headquarters in Isabela, Basilan.
17 Nov 1978 - After a long massive combat operation, 34IB displaced from Basilan and moved back to Jolo Sulu and established CP in Bato-bato, Indanan, Sulu.
22 Nov 1978 - The Battalion left Bato-bato, Indanan, Sulu and moved to Silangkan, Parang, Sulu.
11 Mar 1979 -The Battalion moved from Silangkan, Parang, Sulu and
established Battalion Headquarters in Tiptipon, Panamao, and Sulu.
16 Nov 1980 - The Battalion was recalled to Headquarters 5th Infantry Brigade (SEPARATE) PA, Camp Gen Servillano Aquino, Tarlac where heroes welcome was accorded to the troops.
07 Jan 1981 - The Battalion underwent re-training at Camp Gen Servillano Aquino, Tarlac.
17 May 1981 - The bn was hauled to Sangley point, Cavite.
26 May 1981 - The Bn Left Sangley point, Cavite for Samar aboard LST 505.
29 May 1981 - The troops arrived at the shoreline of Dolores, Eastern Samar relieving in place the 52nd PC Bn.
18 Dec 1986 -The Battalion moved from Dolores, Eastern Samar and established Battalion Headquarters in Borongan, Eastern Samar.
11 May 1988 - The Bn moved from Borongan, Eastern Samar and established its Bn Hqs in Brgy Lokilokon, Wright, Samar.
14 Sep 1988 -The Bn Transferred to Leyte and established Command Post in Anahawan, Southern, Leyte.
08 Jan 1989 - The Battalion moved from Anahawan, Southern Leyte and proceeded to Brgy Malinao, Mahaplag, Leyte and established command post thereat collocated with the cp of 43IB.
05 May 1989 - The Battalion again moved from Mahaplag, Leyte to occupy a new AOR in Southern Leyte. It established its Battalion Command Post in Brgy Patong, Hinunangan, Southern Leyte.
28 Jul 1989 - The Battalion established temporary CP in Bagacay, Hinabangan, Samar.
15 Oct 1989 - The Battalion established its Bn Hqs in Brgy Buenavista, Quinapondan, Eastern Samar.
21 Dec 1989 - The Battalion established its bn Hqs in Calapi, Motiong, Samar.
08 Aug 1991 - The Battalion displaced from Calapi, Motiong, Samar and established its Battalion Headquarters in Brgy Trinidad, Calbayog City.
26 Mar 1996 - The Bn established its ACP in Brgy Erenas, San Jorge, Samar.
09 Jan 1999 - The Battalion displaced from Brgy Trinidad to establish Command Post in Brgy Erenas, San Jorge, Samar.
24 Aug 2001 - The Battalion displaced from Brgy Erenas to establish CP in Brgy Blanca Aurora, San Jorge, Samar,
27 Jan 2002 - The Battalion displaced from Brgy Blanca Aurora, San Jorge, Samar back to former Bn Hqs in Brgy Erenas, San Jorge, Samar.
PAST SIGNIFICANT ACTIVITIES AND ACCOMPLISHMENT:
The 34th Infantry Battalion was activated on February 1974 with the nucleus of its personnel and equipment drawn from the first Infantry Division, Philippine Army. MAJ GEN MANUEL V CACANANDO (RET), then a LT COL, BECAME the first Battalion Commander when he assumed command of the unit on 20 May 1974. The unit initially had a total strength of thirty four (34) Officers, one hundred forty two (142) Enlisted Personnel and four hundred twenty (420) trainees, which underwent four (4) months rigid Molave Warfare Training.
A few months later, on 020300 October 1974, the troops left Fort Magsaysay and arrived at their first destination on 08 October 1974 in Lamitan, Basilan where they relieved in place the 23rd Infantry Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, PA. The Battalion had its baptism of fire when Bravo Company stationed at Campo Tres was harassed and subjected to automatic fire by undetermined number of enemy.
Following the methodology of the campaign set by the AFP, the 34IB carried a two (2) fold strategy of right hand and left hand efforts thru massive combat operations and civil assistance operations. This proved to be very effective because in a period of just one (1) year the whole municipality of Lamitan was rehabilitated. A total of approximately 256 square kilometers of agricultural land was likewise reclaimed from the hands of the rebels/terrorists: barrio Lahi-lahi, Singkapan, Tablas, Bato-bato, Buton and Dugaa were liberated from the terrorists. Barangay schools were reopened and temporary school buildings were constructed and regular transports were restored.
In grateful appreciation of these accomplishments, the provincial board of Basilan passed a resolution commending the Officers and Men of 34th Infantry Battalion for a job well done in the pacification campaign.
Pursuant to Section III General Orders number 138 HIID dated 01 Feb 76 LT COL ALBERTO LUCERO 0-90715 (INF) PA (Now Deceased) was designated Commanding Officer in acting capacity until 01 May of same year when he was designated as the Commanding Officer of the unit. The assumption of command of LT COLONEL LUCERO carried with it the expansion of the area of responsibility of the unit which included the whole town of Tuburan covering a total land area of 265 square kilometers. LT COLONEL LUCERO organized a reinforced composite Company to clear suspected enemy positions in some critical areas of the AOR.
In the succeeding months of cease-fire accord from February 1976 to November 1976, the unit busied itself in civic action with the end view of winning the hearts and minds of the people and instill thrust and confidence of the citizenry to the duly constituted government in Basilan. Frequent dialogues with the people were held and medical and dental aids were extended. Evacuees were rehabilitated and people were encouraged to increase their food production. In coordination with the department of education, culture and sports and Civic Minded Citizens in the area, the unit succeeded in the reopening of classes to ten (10) schools in erstwhile critical areas for the school year 1976-77 in the municipality of Lamitan. The Battalion was accredited with the construction of infrastructure projects during the initial stage of the regular operation of the Municipality of Lamitan.
On 15 November 1976 after its successful two years and one month peace Campaign in Basilan. The unit moved to Jolo for major operations with units of 3/1 Bde, IID, PA. Though a number of officers and men had been reassigned or terminated, “Esprit De Corps” of the Battalion under the leadership of LT COL LUCERO had been well maintained. Arriving Jolo wharf aboard LST 95, the troops were welcomed by COL ANGEL KANAPI (Now Retired BGEN), 3/1 Bde Commander and his staff together with high ranking officials of the province of Sulu. The Battalion immediately proceeded to Brgy Tugas, Patikul, Sulu. On 17 November 1976 the Battalion received OPLAN “KRIS” of the Brigade which subsequently signaled the conduct of combat operations. Initial encounter of the Battalion was at vicinity Kandiamak where one rebel was killed and one m16 with m203 was recovered by the troops. On 28 November 1976, the fiercest encounter of the 34IB against the terrorist was fought at Luba Hill an estimated 70-80 terrorists perished due to superior tactics and bravery shown by the members of the unit.
on 07 December 1976 the 34IB relieved in place the 3rd Infantry Battalion at Taglibi, Patikul, Sulu. Taglibi became the unit’s station from 07 December 1976 to 19 March 1978. With the cessation of hostilities by terrorists against government troops from 20 January 1977 to 09 October 1977, the unit confined itself in civic action, in coordination with provincial and national agencies, bringing the government closer to the hearts of the people of Patikul and particularly at Taglibi where the bulk of evacuees were concentrated.
From 01 November 1977 to 15 March 1978, 34IB figured in 27 intensive encounters against the enemy at vicinity Luba Hill, Bakung and Kaunayan complex all of Patikul, Sulu resulting to 45 KIA and WIA on the enemy side.
On 19 March 1978 after one year and four months in Jolo the unit moved to Basilan to rejoin 2/1 Brigade. On its way to its former AOR (Lamitan, Basilan) Via Tongkil, Sulu it met stiff resistance at Baguindan, Tipo-tipo, Basilan. There it fought against enemy in a fierce gun battle that lasted for three (3) days, from 28 – 30 March 1978. Inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy side. Then in May of 1978, the unit spearheaded other Battalions of 2/1 Brigade for the successful rescue of the 53 passengers of the ill-fated M/V Don Carlos who were made hostages by terrorists at Tuburan, Basilan.
On 21 July 1978, the 34IB was transferred to Isabela with the municipalities of Maluso and Lantawan all of Basilan province as its area of responsibility. It tremendously involved itself in various community projects like construction of school buildings, feeder roads, improvement of water system and housing units, which were all aimed at alleviating the living condition of the masses. It also conducted civic actions on Medical and Dental services. On land reform, the unit made representation with the “PACLAP” and the bureau of lands for the release of land titles to a number of settlers at barrio Calvario, Isabela, Basilan. It also participated with other units of 2/1 Brigade in clearing operations in the entire province.
On 17 November 1978, the unit, after eight (8) months of successful Campaign in Basilan was directed to move again to Jolo. Before proceeding to its new AOR, however, it conducted police operations at the municipalities of Indanan, Parang and Talipao all of Sulu Province.
On 01 March 1980, 34IB was relieved from 1st Infantry Division, PA and reassigned to 5th Infantry Brigade (SEPARATE) PA. For a period of almost eight (8) months, the Battalion conducted a series of offensive operations augmenting other neighboring units in restoring peace and order.
The Officers and men of the unit stayed in Mindanao for six (6) years and twenty eight (28) days. Indeed, it was a costly campaign because during the period, 151 precious lives were lost, 385 were wounded and five (5) were declared missing in action.
On 16 November 1980, this unit was transferred back to Luzon and was accorded a hero’s welcome. The awarding of medals and decorations to deserving personnel highlighted the welcome ceremony.
On 26 February 1981, COL LUCERO was relieved and LT COL DE LEON was designated as Commanding Officer of the unit. On that same day, the Battalion left Sangley point for Dolores, Eastern Samar relieving in place the 52nd PC Battalion. The 34th Infantry Battalion, PA was still in Dolores when MAJ EDMUND PACADA was designated as acting Commanding Officer relieving LT COL DE LEON. After one (1) month, MAJOR PACADA was relieved by COL LUCERO and his return to the unit proved to be productive both in combat and civic activities. But due to his lingering illness, COL LUCERO died on September 16 1985 and was succeeded by LT COL ROLANDO S PESTAÑO.
On 18 December 1986, the unit established its Battalion Headquarters in Borongan, Eastern Samar relieving in place the 2/8 Infantry Brigade (SEPARATE), pa. The unit under COL PESTAÑO incurred minimal losses but inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy.
On 11 May 1988, LT COL PESTAÑO was relieved as Commanding Officer and subsequently succeeded by LT COL ALEXIS ALDEGUER. After the turn over of Command the Headquarters was transferred from Borongan to Lokilokon, Wright Samar relieving in place 14ib, 8th Infantry Brigade (SEPARATE), PA. On 07 July 1988, LT COL ERNESTO MAGPANTAY took over the command vice LT COL ALDEGUER.
On 13 September 1988, after almost eight (8) years and three months of successful insurgency campaign in the Provinces of Samar and Eastern Samar, 34th Inf Bn left for Leyte island. The unit was placed under the Operational Control (OPCON) of 803rd Infantry Brigade and established its temporary Headquarters at Anahawan, southern Leyte on Sept 1988. On 09 Jan 1989, the Battalion acted as a mobile force and moved its Hqs to malinao, mahaplag, Leyte then to Brgy Patong, Hinunangan, Southern Leyte on 06 May 1989.
on 28 July 1989, after eleven (11) months in the provinces of Leyte and southern Leyte, 34th Inf Bn was redeployed to Samar Island and placed under the operational control (OPCON) of 802nd Inf Bde. After one (1) week sojourn at Hqs 802nd Inf Bde, the battalion moved to Eastern Samar and established its Hqs at Brgy Buenavista, Quinapondan, Eastern Samar. two (2) months and one (1) week later on 15 Oct 1989, the battalion excluding one (1) rifle company was redeployed in San Jose De Buan and hinter barangays of Paranas, Motiong and Jiabong all of Western Samar, due to noted RGU concentration in the tri boundaries of Western Samar, Northern Samar and Eastern Samar provinces. The Battalion was injected deep into the enemy guerilla base with its headquarters located in Brgy Caranas, Motiong, Samar.
On o3 Nov 1989, LT COL MAGPANTAY was replaced by LT COL FELINO N TRISTE.
On 21 Dec 1989, the unit established its Bn Hqs in Calapi, Motiong, Samar. While in Brgy Calapi, the unit received a resolution of appreciation from the municipality of Motiong, Samar in recognition for its invaluable accomplishments in civic action and the restoration of peace and order in the area.
On 01 May 1991, LT COL TRISTE was relieved and subsequently, LT COL ADOLFO E PANTE was designated as acting commanding officer of the unit.
On 08 Aug 1991, the Battalion moved its Hqs by foot from Brgy Calapi, Motiong, Samar to Brgy Trinidad, Calbayog City relieving in place 62nd Inf Bn and took responsibility of the latter’s AOR composed of the City of Calbayog
and six (6) municipalities namely: Tarangnan, Pagsangjan, San Jorge, Gandara, Sta Margarita and Matuguinao with a total of three hundred sixty-six (366) Barangays.
Following the changes of AOR, the unit has embarked on a massive combat/clearing operations in its new AOR as a prelude to the intensification of SOT operations as envisioned in AFP Campaign Plan LAMBAT BITAG. The said combat operation have resulted to the neutralization of nine (9) regular CTs, six (6) of whom were KIA and the other three were captured, and the recovery of eight (8) HPFAs and six (6) LPFAs.
The unit launched a series of SOT operations targeting all affected Barangays in the AOR. By the middle of 1992, the unit was able to de-influence thirty (30) affected Barangays in the AOR which accounted for a total of two thousand seven hundred forty-nine (2,749) CPP/NPA regulars, Subversive Mass Activist (SMA) and supporters/sympathizers voluntarily returning to the folds of the law. The conduct of the said SOT operations also necessitated the implementation of various CMO Projects as complementary activities. The remarkable accomplishment of the unit in counter insurgency operations (COIN) was cited by various municipalities in the AOR most notably the City of Calbayog and the municipality of Matuguinao where most of the surrenderees came from.
Due to the continuous conduct of sot operations and sustained implementation of CMO projects in the AOR, the following year, the unit was again able to neutralize seventy five (75) regular TDS, sixteen (16) of whom were KIA and the rest were surrenderees, recovered seventeen (17) HPFAS and six (6) LPFAS including various communications equipment, medicine and voluminous subversive documents of high intelligence value.
To earn the trust and confidence of the people in the new AOR, the unit launched a fitting campaign “The Araw-Araw Kaibigan Campaign” with the end result of befriending people in the AOR including those who tried to destroy the image of the unit right after its deployment in the AOR. Much of the accomplishments of the unit could be attributed to this campaign and it was a major accomplishment, which earned for the unit the award of 8ID’s best battalion in CMO in 1993.
In June 1993, LT COL ADOLFO E PANTE was relieved as commanding officer of 34ib, 8id, and replaced by COL ANTONIO C SANTOS JR GSC (INF) PA Pursuant to Sec II, GO NR 158 H8ID, PA dated 19 June 1993.
The scheduled turn-over of coin functions from DND-AFP to DILG-PNP in 1997 as envisioned by executive order 216 brought considerable pressure on the Battalion to fast track its Counter-Insurgency Campaign (COIN). COL SANTOS JR at the helm, the unit aggressively pursued its intensified campaign of flushing out remaining TDS and their mass bases in the AOR following the quadratic concept involving intelligence, combat CMO and internal security operations in order to reduce its internal security condition to a level conducive to PNP take-over.
For its well orchestrated operations, the unit was able to de-influence the remaining twenty-three (23) affected Barangays in the AOR, neutralize two thousand two hundred thirty-six (2,236), regular TDS, mass activist/supporters/sympathizers which resulted in the recovery of nine (9) HPFAS and nine (9) LPFAS including several equipments and voluminous subversive documents with high Intel value. In support to the governments campaign on loose FAS as implemented by OPLAN “PAGLALANSAG”, the unit was able to recover twenty-five (25) loose FAs issued to vigilante group sometime in early eighties (‘80s). Complementing the unit’s efforts to combat operations were the numerous intelligence and CMO operations launched which resulted to major accomplishments, among others, the capture of three (3) members of a robbery gang with one (1) m16 rifle, the neutralization of three (3) members of hold-up gang and the recovery of their loot amounting to four thousand pesos (4,000.00) and other valuables, identification of personalities of illegal loggers, the solution of the case in the killing of one (1) Venus Lacaba of Gandara, Samar, the arrest of a robber with his loot in the amount of fifty thousand (50,000.00) pesos and two (2) suspects for kidnapping and murder and the neutralization of seventy nine (79) NPA regulars thru negotiations.
To maintain a high state of readiness among personnel, the unit regularly conducts various training and seminars which include among others, the following: basic Intel collection seminar refresher course, CAA Basic Military Training, Basic Tradecraft Seminar, Capability Building Seminar, Preventive Driving and Vehicle Maintenance, Tinapa Making, Commando Training, Basic Computer Training and Mortar Gunnery Refresher Course.
Likewise, to keep pace with its increasing administrative requirements, the unit had taken the initiative to modernize its own information system by procuring four (4) sets of computers.
Such accomplishments have earned the unit the following awards: Best Infantry Battalion for Calendar Year 1993 in 8ID, Best Battalion in 8ID in 1994 and Best Battalion in Intelligence in 8ID in 1994.
Then in June 1995, COL ANTONIO C SANTOS JR was relieved and reassigned to Mindanao to assume a higher post. Replacing him was his long time Executive Officer MAJOR DOMINADOR V MACALINTAL SR (INF) PA.
LT COL MACALINTAL SR continued as aggressively as ever the programs of the 8ID drawing big support from the populace in the AOR whom he had befriended during his incumbency as ex-o of the battalion and from the support of the ever-loyal members of the “RELIABLE” Battalion.
Taking advantage of the generally peaceful situation in the AOR, the unit had taken a strong preoccupation in Civil Military Operations (CMO) and training. It had spearheaded various activities in medical and dental civic action program with the help of the different LGUS and NGOS which benefited a total of seven thousand three hundred twenty three (7,323) patients who were treated free; helped the DECS and LGUS in their literacy campaign with the completion of 13 ALPS classes conducted in various parts of the AOR which benefited some four hundred thirty eight (438) illiterates; and assisted the DENR, LGAS and LGUS in their anti-illegal logging campaign with the confiscation of forty one thousand nine hundred twenty nine (41,929) board feet of illegally cut lumber. The unit had also complemented its drive against illegal logging activities by planting tree in the AOR with a total of sixteen thousand two hundred forty five (16,245) seedlings.
In keeping pace with the demand of professionalizing the AFP, the unit had busied itself with the conduct of intensive skills trainings/seminars, which benefited the majority of its personnel including some of their dependents.
In combat, the unit had participated in numerous combat operations initiated by Higher Headquarters and also conducted several of its own in its effort to neutralize the remaining DTS in the AOR. These combat operations resulted to the neutralization of 13 high ranking DTS. The capture/surrender of 14 high powered f/as and 23 low powered f/as/several rounds of ammunition and other war materiel’s and voluminous subversive documents of high intelligence value.
on 09 January 1997, upon the direction of Higher Headquarters, the unit transferred its Battalion Headquarters from Brgy Trinidad, Calbayog City to Brgy Erenas, San Jorge, Samar.
Eight months after the transfer, on 01 Sept 1997, LTC RUBEN O RAFAEL 0-7087 INF (GSC) PA took over the reigns of the Battalion Pursuant to Sec II, go nr 423 H8ID, PA dated 26 Aug 97 vice LTC DOMINADOR V MACALINTAL SR 0-106190 (INF) PA.
The assumption of LTC RAFAEL as commanding Officer of the unit ushered a new dynamism into the growing responsibility of the Battalion. Under his Command, the unit underwent the 2nd Battalion retraining conducted from 20 Oct to 19 Jun 98 and the CAA Refresher Training from 04 Nov to 02 Dec 98 to prepare itself for bigger challenges ahead. After the retraining, the unit immediately plunged into action. Following the concept of the AFP’S Campaign Plan “KAISAGANAAN” (lo i42-92), the unit concentrated on CMO and combat operations supported by intelligence operation by utilizing one company as strike force serving at the same time as Disaster Response Unit (DRU) and two (2) rifle companies as territorial defense forces in charge of CMO and intelligence. This strategy has provided the unit flexibility in addressing a highly mobile enemy by deploying troops anywhere in the area of responsibility whenever the need arises. But barely 4 months into action, on 01 Nov 98, the unit’s company a was reassigned to 63IB, a newly activated Battalion of the 8id. Replacing the said company were 65 personnel coming from the different units of 8ID.
Unfazed by this massive change in the organization, the unit, nevertheless, aggressively pursued its mission participating in 19 Higher Headquarters directed operation and conducting 29 Battalion initiated operations and 51 company operations, including eight (8) CIVAC operations, four (4) Army CARES operations, five (5) ALPS operations, two (2) MSOT, two (2) ACCORD operations and tree planting activities which resulted to the following: recovery of 7 HPFA’s, 11 LPFA’s and 2 landmines, neutralization of three (3) regular DT’s and camps, neutralization of one (1) hold-up gang with the capture of its leader and confiscation of their f/as and the subsequent filing of criminal case against their members, capture of three (3) more criminals and subsequent filing of criminal cases against them in court, confiscation of eight thousand four hundred nineteen (8,419) board feet of illegally cut lumbers, identification of the names of illegal loggers in the Area of Responsibility; five thousand seven hundred forty four (5,744) beneficiaries of CIVAC; seven thousand seven (7,007) beneficiaries of Army CARES Program; one hundred seventy one (171) civilian beneficiaries of alps operations and six thousand seven hundred (6,700) seedlings planted.
On Logistic, the unit was able to accomplish the following: construction of additional EP barracks, construction of basketball court, improvement of Motor Pool, construction of ammo dump, improvement of Bulwagan and the admin building, maintenance of its vehicles to 100% serviceability status.
As a result of these accomplishments the battalion received the following awards: the 13th WSCAA Company as the best CAA company in the AFP for 1998 and the best CAA company in VISCOM for 1998; Letter of Commendation from LT GEN RAUL S URGELLO, AFP, CG PA dated 24 Nov 95 as one of the three best battalions in 8id for 1998 and several commendations from civil authorities in the Area of Responsibility.
Higher Headquarters responded generously to the collective efforts of the unit’s personnel by promoting three hundred twenty five (325) of the four hundred ten enlisted personnel of the unit, in just two years, broken down as follows: four (4) Msgt, eleven (11) Tsg, thirty three (33) Ssg, seventy (70) Sgt, one hundred eighteen (118) Cpl and eighty nine (89) Pfc.
Then on 05 September 1999, LT COL ESPERIDION O REBADOMIA replaced LT COL RAFAEL as Commanding Officer. He continued aggressively programs and plans that the Battalion is undertaking. His leadership was also geared towards befriending the community by which a series of operations was conducted and also jive with the conduct of formal dialogue with the populace in the far flung areas emphasizing on organizing and mobilizing the people there at. During his time, the Battalion grandstand was constructed near the basketball and tennis court.
After six months, LT COL REBADOMIA was replaced by then MAJ SONNY L GADOT (INF) GSC PA on the 25 of April 2000. It was in this period that a series of seminar and training was conducted for officers and men of the battalion. His period was the time that re-conceptualization of the “LAMBAT BITAG” was realized wherein the campaign plan “uproot the weeds” was conceptualized. The plan was focus on the deliberate and systematic conduct of TRIAD operation making San Jose de Buan as the constriction area. A series of MSOT, ALPS and ACCORD operation was then conducted at target influenced Barangays which brought about ISO gains for the Battalion. community oriented activities was also enhance by constant dialogue with the LGUs and NGOs in the AOR. It was in this period that the Battalion adopted three hectares of land at Barangay Mahayag, Catbalogan, Samar in coordination with the PBSP for reforestation project. During the evaluation of the national DECS office for best Literacy Program for CY 1999-2000, the Battalion ALPS Program was recognized and awarded as one of the most outstanding literacy program in national level. It was in this period that the area coordination center was being initiated by the Battalion to LGUs in the AOR. On the celebration of the Division Anniversary last 30 July 2001, the Battalion was then adjudge as the best performing Battalion in the field of administration and operation Division wide and got the division streamer award.
With the government all out campaign against secessionist movement in Mindanao during the period, the higher headquarters needed the troops of 63rd Infantry Battalion to be redeployed. On the month of April 2000 the Battalion took Calbayog city from 63rd Infantry Battalion as additional AOR. It was this time that realignment of line companies was carried out.
with the new concept of the higher headquarters of moving the troops nearer to the enemy, the Battalion CP was then established at Brgy Blanca Aurora, San Jorge, Samar on the 24th of August 2001 making the previous CP at Erenas, San Jorge as RCP.
on 08 Jan 02, LTC SANNY GADOT INF (GSC) PA was transferred to HPA and LTC ROMEO A VELASCO 0-112693 (FA) PA his Bn Ex-O assumed the position as OIC, after 23 days LTC VELASCO transferred to h8id, pa and was replaced on 01 Feb 02 by LTC ROMEO L GAPUZ O-8327 INF (GSC) PA as Battalion Commander. COL GAPUZ conducted sustained internal security operations in the central portion of Western Samar to neutralize the whole of central front Samar - 1 (CFS-1), Central Front Samar – 2 (CFS-2) and Seccom Diego of Front Committee 1 (F1) which resulted to the recovery of 15 HPFAs and 18 LPFAs and neutralization and surrender of CTs – thirteen of enemy were KIA one of whom is Carlito Salingsing @ Terado Secretary of Secom Dawa and CO of Linti Platoon and capture of enemy encampments and subversive documents with high intelligence value. Likewise, his principles in civil military operations brought about by well coordinated support to the local government units through the successful conduct of 10 army Literacy Patrol System (ALPS) classes with a total of 206 graduates resulting to the unit being adjudged as the second placer “most outstanding” National Literacy Awards in three (3) consecutive years from 2002, 2003 and 2004 which was instrumental in placing the 8th Infantry Division in the National Literacy Conference Hall of Fame. And also the conduct of twenty eight (28) Special Operation Team (SOT) to affected Brgy in CFS1 & F1 to 1 SO gains of the Battalion.
on 03 Jan 05, LTC WILSON LEYVA INF (GSC) PA replaced COL ROMEO GAPUZ INF (GSC) PA Commanding Officer transferred to HCENTCOM. He continued aggressive TRIAD operation with the implementation of Battalion IMPLAN SLUMDUNK focusing clearing and sot operations at Catbalogan, Jiabong and Motiong complex. Then after 3 months MAJ NORBERTO M ORBASE (OS) PA his Bn Ex-O assumed as acting co for 16 days while he was on leave. On 08 April 05 LTC EDITO M NISNISAN INF (GSC) PA assumed the post as the new Battalion Commander. LTC NISNISAN continued sustained Internal Security Operations (ISO) in Battalion AOR. During his incumbency as the Battalion Commander of 34th Infantry (RELIABLE) Battalion: thirteen (13) Battalion initiated operations, two thousand five hundred sixty three (2,563) Small Unit Operations, thirty four (34) SOT operations and two (2) CIVAC were conducted within the Battalion AOR which resulted to the recovery of four (4) HPFAs, sixty (60) LPFAs and discovery of six (6) enemy encampments. On 19 Sept 05, LTC EDITO M NISNISAN was relieved as commanding officer of 34IB, 8ID, and was replaced by LTC GLORIVINE R DIDA INF (GSC) PA which at present is the Commanding Officer of the “RELIABLE” Battalion.
