Ormoc city: The newly installed commander of the Philippine Army's 802nd Infantry Brigade, Brig. Gen. Pompeyo Jason Almagro, has committed to maintaining the momentum in the government's fight against insurgency in Eastern Visayas. Almagro, who took over the command in Ormoc City, follows Col. Rico Amaro, the acting commander after Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir's retirement.

According to Philippines News Agency, Almagro emphasized his intention to continue the initiatives of his predecessors, as instructed by the division commander. One of the key initiatives he aims to sustain is Project Ultimatum, which seeks to eradicate insurgency by encouraging rebels to surrender. Under this project, groups surrendering collectively, especially from the same province, receive cash assistance from their local government units.

Almagro noted the progress already made in reducing the number of remaining rebels in Leyte but stressed the ongoing commitment to defeating the insurgent elements still operating in Leyte and southern Samar Island. Before this assignment, Almagro was with the 1st Infantry Division in Southern Mindanao, the first military unit to dismantle all fronts of the New People's Army. He believes his experience in Mindanao will aid in the efforts to end the insurgency in Eastern Visayas.

The 802nd Infantry Brigade oversees operations in Leyte and Biliran Islands, along with certain towns in southern Eastern Samar and Samar provinces.