By Glazyl M. Jopson
BACOLOD CITY – The Philippine Army’s 303rd Infantry Brigade has recognized the bravery of three soldiers injured during a clash with New People’s Army remnants in Sitio Bairan, Barangay General Luna, Toboso, Negros Occidental last week.
Brig. Gen. Ted Dumosmog, 303rd IBde commander, and Lt. Col. Arnel Calaoagan, commander of the 79th Infantry Battalion, awarded Wounded Personnel Medals to the injured troops during a hospital visit in Bacolod City on Friday.
The Army commended the soldiers for their courage, saying they remained committed to their mission despite their injuries.
The wounded personnel, all from the 79th IB, include a corporal, a private first class, and a private.
The corporal sustained a gunshot wound to the left shoulder, the private first class was shot in the right leg, and the private suffered facial shrapnel injuries.
One of the soldiers volunteered to return to combat immediately after receiving medical treatment, underscoring the Army’s dedication to protecting local communities.
The military also reaffirmed its commitment to humanitarian efforts, saying medical support is extended beyond their ranks.
They continue to call on NPA rebels to surrender and help end the cycle of violence.
The March 18 firefight displaced 122 families and suspended classes in two barangays for two days.
Authorities declared the area clear and safe by Friday, allowing residents to return and classes to resume.
Meanwhile, the National Democratic Front-Negros has condemned the deaths of two alleged members killed in an encounter in Barangay Caduha-an, Cadiz City on March 8.
The Army identified the slain individuals as Hans Ponteras, also known by the aliases Jojo, Lance, Teddy, and Mojo, and Marissa Pobresa, 23, also known as Kim, Renz, and Mia.
Ka Bayano Obrero, spokesperson for NDF-Negros, denied the two were armed rebels and claimed the encounter was staged.
Obrero said both were civilians and NDF-Negros members working with marginalized sectors to advance land reform and national industrialization.
The Army earlier said Ponteras was a high-ranking NPA official behind the group’s alleged extortion activities.
