Seventeen soldiers lauded for heroic feat

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 3): Seventeen soldiers lauded for heroic feat

The military cited 17 members of the 66th Infantry Battalion for a job well-done after figuring in an encounter with the New People’s Army which resulted to the death of two rebels and the recovery of several high-powered fire arms in April 25, in the hinterlands of Nabunturan, Compostela Valley.

Lt. General Noel Coballes, commander of the Philippine Army granted the merits to the soldiers in a simple ceremony at the 66th Infantry Battalion Headquarters in Barangay Cabinuangan, New Bataan, Compostela Valley, Wednesday.

He lauded the soldiers for respecting the rights of the people and the International Human Law and above the rule of law.

“Keep up the good work as protectors of the people,” Coballes said.

The 17 members of the Scout Platoon of 66IB were led by 1Lt. Marvin Gamad when they engaged the rebels in a firefight at Sitio Apogon, Brgy Katipunan, Nabunturan, Compostela Valley.

The encounter resulted to recovery of six high-powered firearms, namely five M-16 Armalite rifles and one M-14 rifle, one anti-personnel landmine, handheld radios, and campaign materials. 

The soldiers treated and alternately carried one wounded rebel from mountainous area towards the poblacion using an improvised stretcher for his immediate transfer to Davao Regional Hospital in Tagum City.

The rebel succumbed to massive organ failure while being treated in the hospital.

http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=2381367477589