• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Major Gen. Michael Samson led the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (ID) in honoring Corporal Renold Gardose for his ultimate sacrifice in defending the peace in Negros Island against the New People’s Army (NPA).
Gardose, 29, squad leader of the 11th Infantry Battalion, died after two consecutive encounters against the combined remnants of the South East and South West Fronts of the Komiteng Rehiyonal-Negros in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental on Feb. 15.
Slightly injured was PFC Janes Tyrone Lozano, 28, of Riverside, Bohol.
In a statement, Samson said Gardose displayed extraordinary courage and dedication to duty in the face of danger.
“His sacrifice is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our troops to protect the Negrenses from the threats of the remaining NPA elements,” he added. “We assure his family that his heroism will forever be remembered.”
Samson said the 3ID remains steadfast in its mandate to dismantle the remaining rebel remnants and to sustain peace, security, and development efforts across Negros Oriental.
He also assured the families of both soldiers of full support from the Philippine Army.
“We will provide all the necessary assistance to Corporal Gardose’s family and ensure that our wounded soldier receives the best possible care and support during his recovery. We will honor their sacrifices not only with words but also with concrete actions,” Samson said. | GB
