• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Fifteen soldiers of the Philippine Army’s 94th Infantry Battalion (IB) were conferred medals in recognition of their exemplary performance during an encounter on June 6 in the hinterlands of Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental.
Maj. Gen. Michael Samson, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, led the awarding rites at the 94IB headquarters in Barangay Libas, Isabela on June 9.
Each of the 15 soldiers, including two officers and 13 enlisted personnel, got a Military Merit Medal.
The encounter in Barangay Buenavista led to the death of a remnant of the dismantled New People’s Army Central Negros 2, recovery of M16 assault rifle, and surrender of one of the fleeing rebels.
Lt. Col. Ziegfred Tayaban, 94IB commander, said the encounter took place after they responded to persistent reports that the rebel remnants have been harassing families who are not supporting them.
Three families have been forced to flee their homes for fear of their lives, he added.
“Our men deserve to be recognized for their efforts and sacrifices, especially in combat,” Samson said in a statement. | GB
