Soldier killed, another hurt in encounter in Gingoog City

From the Sun Star-Cagayan de Oro (Jul 28, 2019): Soldier killed, another hurt in encounter in Gingoog City

A SOLDIER was killed and another was hurt after suspected rebels attacked while they were conducting clearing operations in hinterland Mount Balatukan, Gingoog City on Saturday, July 27.

The troops were conducting clearing operations in the area following a firefight with the New People's Army (NPA) on Friday, July 26.

The military said there were also an undetermined number of NPA rebels who were either killed or wounded during the clash.

Officials have yet to identify the soldier who died.

In the first encounter, troops were able to rescue a wounded NPA member who was abandoned in the area after a 30-minute firefight.

"Maneuvering troops of 58 Infantry Battalion was quick to recognize a wounded and abandoned NPA who was already raising his hand during an encounter at a remote place in Mt. Balatukan, Gingoog yesterday July 25, 2019 at 6:40 in the evening. The poor NPA was immediately secured and applied first-aid care by the soldiers on his gunshot wound on his left thigh," a statement from the army reads.

Captain Leoden Bajado, 58IB civil military officer, said troops encountered about 80 NPA fighters belonging to platoon Aba, Ada and PPH of NPA’s Company Felot of Sub-Regional Committee 1.

He said the encounter site was a hideout of the NPA.

The wounded NPA identified himself as Gabriel “Patrick” Hilogon. He claimed to be a grandson of Datu Ayuma, and cousin of Junrey Hilogon. Both are evacuees at the Capitol grounds. Patrick surrendered with his M16 rifle.

Lieutenant Colonel Roy Anthony Derilo, battalion commander of 58IB, ordered soldiers to fetch and carry Patrick down from the mountain so he could be accorded immediate medical attention and treatment.

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1816236