PH Army probes 4ID camp shooting that left 5 soldiers dead

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13, 2023): PH Army probes 4ID camp shooting that left 5 soldiers dead (By Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The Philippine Army (PA) said an investigation is underway to determine possible gaps that have triggered the shooting incident at the headquarters of the 4th Infantry Division (4ID) in Cagayan de Oro City that left five soldiers dead, including the perpetrator.

"This is an isolated case. The Army is conducting its internal investigation to identify what triggered this incident and to identify gaps in our recruitment and training process in order for us to prevent similar incidents in the future," PA spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said in a statement over the weekend.

The incident occurred at around 1:10 a.m. Saturday at the unit's headquarters in Camp Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City.

Police identified the fatalities as Pvt. Joseph Tamayo, Pfc. Prince Kevin Balaba, Sgt. Rogelio Rojo, Cpl. Bernardo Rodrigo, as well as the suspected shooter, Pvt. Johmar Villabito.

Another soldier identified as Staff Sgt. Braulio Macalos Jr. was also wounded in the shooting but is now out of danger.

"The 4th Infantry Division has immediately notified police authorities to investigate while conducting its own probe to identify what triggered this tragic shooting incident that caused the unnecessary loss of lives among our soldiers," Trinidad said.

He also said the PA condoled with the families of the victims and assured them of all necessary support.

Meanwhile, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said that it is saddened by this tragic event and condoled with the families of the victims.

"We commiserate with the families of our deceased soldiers as we also pray for the safe recovery of the critically wounded personnel now being treated at Camp Evangelista Station Hospital," AFP spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar said in a statement.

He added that the AFP has already directed the PA to conduct a thorough investigation and implement measures that will prevent the recurrence of similar incidents in the future.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195027