Samar: The Philippine Army's 8th Infantry Division has recognized the 42nd Infantry Battalion for its effort to end insurgency as the unit returns to the Bicol Region after two years of suppressing the New People's Army in Samar provinces.

According to Philippines News Agency, Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio, commander of the Army's 8th Infantry Division, stated that the battalion received a meritorious merit medal and command plaque as recognition for their significant accomplishments and contributions in the region's anti-insurgency drive.

'Through their tireless community support operations and mobile community support sustainment operations, they did more than neutralize threats and recover firearms - they brought hope and security to communities that longed for peace. Their efforts have strengthened the foundation of long-lasting peace and sustainable development for the people of Eastern Visayas,' Orio said.

One of its notable accomplishments was the successful dismantling of the Elcon platoon of the sub-regional committee browser of the NPA Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee operating in Samar and Eastern Samar provinces on March 3, 2023. The unit also recovered assorted high-powered firearms and captured and facilitated the surrender of armed rebels.

The 42nd Infantry Battalion arrived in Samar from Mindanao on Feb. 22, 2023, to help suppress the NPA in the island, considered the last bastion of insurgency in the country. Before their deployment in the region, the battalion was also cited for its performance in the conduct of offensive operations against armed rebels operating in Quezon and Bicol areas. The unit has been assigned in the provinces of Camarines Sur, Zamboanga Peninsula, Lanao Del Sur, and Sulu. They contributed to the liberation of Marawi City, where they took part in the six-month battle against the ISIS-Maute Group.