Eastern visayas: Seventy-seven retiring members of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) Active Auxiliary in Eastern Visayas received more than PHP9.6 million in separation gratuity from the Philippine Army's 8th Infantry Division (8ID).
According to Philippines News Agency, the 8ID CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA) Office announced that they have distributed the financial assistance to retiring militiamen from various units across the region. This assistance was distributed through the respective infantry battalions, with PHP3.73 million granted to 30 militiamen of the 93rd Infantry Battalion in Kananga, Leyte; PHP2.68 million to 22 CAAs of the 43rd Infantry Battalion in Lope de Vega, Northern Samar; PHP1.78 million to 14 CAAs of the 63rd Infantry Battalion in Basey, Samar; and PHP1.4 million to 11 militiamen of the 46th Infantry Battalion in Calbiga, Samar.
Of the beneficiaries, 73 members rendered at least eight years of service, while the remaining four served between five and seven years. The distribution highlights the 8ID's recognition of CAAs as crucial force multipliers and community-based frontline personnel who have contributed to maintaining peace, order, and stability in geographically isolated and conflict-affected areas, the 8ID stated.
The beneficiaries were acknowledged for their roles in assisting military operations, securing communities, and supporting government efforts against local communist terrorist groups in their respective areas of assignment. The Separation Gratuity Program aims to provide financial assistance to retiring CAAs as they transition back to civilian life and pursue livelihood opportunities for their families.
The 8ID expressed hope that this financial assistance will provide a solid foundation for the retiring militiamen as they embark on new beginnings and sustainable livelihoods alongside their families. The CAA, a paramilitary force under the Philippine Army, serves as a force multiplier in counterinsurgency and community security, composed of trained local volunteers operating under the supervision of regular Army units.
