PILI, Camarines Sur – It was in 2016 when Cpl Jojo V. Lim, Cpl Mark Joy C. Belano, Cpl Rocky C. Sasutona and Pvt. Christopher Baylon momentarily left their families to serve and help Marawi City redeem its lost peace and end the 5-month long crisis caused by ISIL fighters.
The province lost Belano, who is from Pili, Lim from Balatan and Sasutona from Ocampo. Baylon is a native of Labo, Camarines Norte. All four are from Bicol and were former members of the 49th Infantry Battalion before they were sent off in a mission to help fight terrorism in Mindanao.
After three years, they returned at the same airport, aboard the Philippine Air Force’s C291 plane, cold and lifeless.
Fallen, yes -- but not defeated.
Maj. Gen. Fernando T Trinidad, Commander of 9th Infantry (Spear) Division and JTF Bicolandia who extended his utmost respect and condolences to the bereaved families of the fallen soldiers, said that their sacrifices bespeak of the “soldier’s commitment to country and the people.”
“As we gaze at the national flag that flies at half-mast anew, rest assured that the heroism and sacrifices of our soldiers will not be in vain. We will continue to pursue peace in our country" he added.
Trinidad vowed that the fallen soldiers will be given an appropriate burial honors befitting for heroes.
The four soldiers died during a clash with the Daesh-inspired terrorist group led by Owayda Benito Marohombsar alyas “Abu Dar” in Sitio Tagum, Barangay Dinaigan, Tubaran, Lanao del Sur on March 15.
After receiving the soldiers at the Pili Airport, their remains were brought at the St. Martin of Tours Chapel at Camp Elias Angeles for a necrological service. Tears and silent weeping filled the room but the sense of pride and respect for their heroism were also felt flooding the area.
After the necro rites, the soldiers’ coffins were sent back to their respective families for some privacy.
Col. Ferozaldo Paul T. Regencia, Assistant Division Commander for Reserve Force Development was also present during the ceremony.
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1020055
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