CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Friday, March 3, attended the wake of soldiers who were killed in action in an encounter with the New People’s Army (NPA) in Misamis Oriental.

He was greeted warmly upon his arrival at the Camp BGen. Edilberto Evangelista Chapel, where the remains of the fallen soldiers lie in state. The fallen soldiers were awarded the Bronze Spearhead Devise Medal.

The President also extended financial, medical, and educational assistance to the bereaved families.

Cpl. Marzon Morales and Pvt. Oshin Rosala were killed-in-action in clashes with the NPA at Barangay Kaulayanan, Sugbongcogon, Misamis Oriental last February 27 and 28.

The firefight reportedly ensued after the 58th Infantry Battalion responded to local residents’ complaints of NPA troops demanding food support in the area.

There were reportedly around 30 armed rebels from Guerilla Front 4B, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee who engaged the soldiers.

Duterte then went to Camp BGen. Edilberto Station Hospital, where he visited the wounded soldiers, namely: Pfc. Marquin Variacion, Pfc. Vincent Niño Lopez, Pvt. Regie Joy Duyan, and Pvt. Ramon Balibagon, Jr.

Each was personally awarded with the Wounded Personnel Medal. Financial assistance, medical and educational support were also extended to the2m.

He likewise visited Sgt. Joshua Delawan, Pfc. Jeneses Andam, and Kenneth de Guzman, who are also confined at the Camp BGen. Edilberto Evangelista Station Hospital. ###PND