• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The family of fallen soldier PFC John Rey Brasil has requested that he be laid to rest on July 1, which coincides with the birthday of his wife, in a final gesture of togetherness, despite his death in the line of duty.
Lt. Col. Eric Alfonso, commander of the 79th Infantry Battalion, disclosed that PFC Brasil had promised his wife that he would attend her birthday.
This will be the first and last time that the fallen soldier will celebrate the birthday of his wife, Alfonso told Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, who flew to Negros Occidental on Thursday.
Brasil, 29, who died in an encounter on June 1 in Barangay Tamlang, Escalante City, will be buried in Murcia, Negros Occidental, where his family resides.
The fallen soldier leaves behind his 24-year-old wife, whom he married only a year ago.
His death has drawn tributes from government officials, military leaders, and peace advocates who hailed his dedication and sacrifice.
Teodoro Jr., who extended his condolences to the bereaved family, described Brasil’s death as honorable and reflective of his commitment to military service.
Teodoro, visited on Thursday the wake at a funeral parlor in Sagay City of Brasil, who joined the Armed Forces at the age of 19, and had recently been identified for further leadership training as a prospective team leader.
The Defense Secretary directed concerned government agencies to provide psychosocial support and other necessary assistance to the grieving family.
Meanwhile, the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict also joined the Armed Forces of the Philippines in mourning Brasil’s death, describing him as a steadfast defender of peace who embodied selflessness, bravery, and unwavering commitment to duty.
In a statement, the task force said Brasil placed himself between vulnerable communities and armed groups that sought to sow fear and instability. It added that his sacrifice was made in pursuit of lasting peace in Negros Occidental.
Beyond his military duties, Brasil was also active in peace advocacy efforts as a supporter of the Youth for Peace Movement–Northern Negros Chapter. According to NTF-ELCAC, he dedicated time to encouraging young Filipinos to embrace patriotism, responsible citizenship, and community involvement.
“To his family, we offer our profound gratitude. The sacrifice borne by your son and by your family in the service of the nation can never be fully repaid,” the task force said.
While his life was cut short, officials and colleagues said Brasil’s legacy will continue through the communities he helped protect, the youth he inspired, and the nation he faithfully served, the NTF-ELCAC statement said.*
