Soldier on disaster response mission wounded in mine explosion in Sorsogon

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5): Soldier on disaster response mission wounded in mine explosion in Sorsogon

A soldier assigned to a disaster response mission in Sorsogon was wounded after his team stumbled on a mine planted by suspected communist insurgents in Irosin, Sorsogon, around 11.45 a.m. Friday.

Army Col. Cesar M. Idio, commanding officer of the Army’s 903rd Infantry Brigade, said a Disaster Response Team under 1Lt. Carlito A. Carino of the 31st Infantry Battalion, was on board a civilian vehicle to establish a Quick Reaction Team at the Irosin Disaster Risk Reduction Management Operation Center in connection with typhoon "Ruby" when their vehicle hit a land mine set up by New People's Army (NPA) rebels.

“Our men were on their way to the municipality of Irosin, Sorsogon, when their vehicle hit a landmine with an improvised explosive device planted by an undetermined number of NPA members at Barangay Monbon, Irosin, Sorsogon,” Idio said.

He identified the wounded soldier as Pfc. Jerlou B. Diesta.

Diesta was brought immediately to the Irosin District Hospital for treatment and is already out of danger, according to the attending physician, the Army officer said.

“We condemn this barbaric act by the rebels, especially in times of disaster when our troops are conducting humanitarian mission in preparation for typhoon Ruby. But despite the rebels' attack, your soldiers will continue to respond during disasters and lend a hand to our kababayans,” he said.

Idio mobilized additional troops in Sorsogon to help and assist residents during evacuations.

He said the safety of the people of Sorsogon is their primary concern.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=713203