• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Troops of the Philippine Army provided immediate medical assistance to a wounded member of the New People’s Army, who was abandoned by his comrades during the encounter in Cauayan, Negros Occidental on May 16.
In a statement, the Philippine Army said soldiers from the 15th Infantry Battalion discovered the injured rebel during the clearing operation in Barangays Abaca and Poblacion.
Identified as alias “Joey,” 21, the resident of Sipalay City sustained gunshot wounds to his leg and buttocks as well as minor injury to his hip.
Soldiers administered first aid and provided him food, clean clothing, and other essential needs.
The military said the wounded rebel was first brought to Isio District Hospital for emergency treatment and was transferred to Lorenzo D. Zayco District Hospital in Kabankalan City, where he underwent minor surgical procedure and continued medical care.
After his condition has stabilized, alias “Joey” was formally turned over to the Philippine National Police for documentation and custodial processing.
Maj. Gen. Michael Samson, 3rd Infantry Division commander, said the Army’s response reflected its commitment to protecting lives and upholding human rights under the Rules of Engagement and the Law of Armed Conflict.
“The actions of our troops demonstrate the true character of a Filipino soldier —professional, disciplined, and compassionate,” Samson said. “Our soldiers chose to save life by immediately providing medical treatment and humanitarian assistance to alias “Joey”. | GB
