Valor Battalion extends assistance to family of slain NPA in Sorsogon

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 6, 2020): Valor Battalion extends assistance to family of slain NPA in Sorsogon (By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay)

CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, PILI, Camarines Sur, Aug. 6 (PIA) – The 22nd Infantry (VALOR) Battalion under the stewardship of Lieutenant Colonel Henrito G. Managay extended financial assistance to the bereaved family of Jessica Clotario Altarejos of Salvacion, Irosin, Sorsogon.

In a press statement issued by 9th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) thru its Spokersperson, CPT John Paul Belleza, Altarejos was among the NPA members who was killed during the 45-minute firefight between the government troops and members of CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) in the early morning of July 30, in Brgy. Daganas, Bulan, Sorsogon.

After hearing the statement of Jesus Altarejos, Jessica’s father, Valor Battalion, together with the 9th Civil Military Operations (KAAGAPAY) Battalion under the headship of Lieutenant Colonel Emerson P. De Vera, 9th Infantry (SPEAR) Division, Philippine Army decided to give financial assistance to the grieving family in Irosin, Sorsogon.

The statement also described the sadness of Jessica’s father that his 20-year old daughter, who he described as a silent type, obedient and kind person was easily swayed by the CNTs to join in their cause.

Belleza lamented the fact that Jessica became one of the many unfortunate young recruits who lost her chance to have a bright future ahead of her just because of the wrong notion of camaraderie.

Before Jsssica joined the NPA, she was able to finish her Senior High School at Gallanosa National High School. She wished to be an agriculturist someday to help her family and lift them from poverty.

Jessica was left on the encounter site by people she believed to be his brothers until she heaved her last breath.

After knowing her story, even the soldiers who fought side by side with their unit, gave up their meal allowance just to add up to the financial assistance extended by the Philippine Army.

The Joint Task Force Bicolandia under the leadership of Major General Henry A. Robinson Jr Philippine Army, continues to enjoin members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) to return to the folds of law and have a renewed life.

Robinson stated that the government extends its words of peace to those who wish to reunite with their loved ones and avail of the government programs for the returnees. But he also stressed that the army will continue and will not bend in its resolve to ensure that peace and order in the country will reign. (LSMacatangay, with reports from JPBelleza, DPAO PA/ PIAV-Camarines Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1049645