• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The family of slain Negrense soldier, PFC Rodelo Alfanza, and injured colleague, Sgt. Ernie Dionson, received assistance from the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division, through Maj. Gen. Marion Sison, who also honored the bravery and courage they displayed during a recent encounter with New People’s Army rebels in Tubongan town of Iloilo, on January 17.
Alfanza, of Brgy. Bato. Sagay City, Negros Occidental, died while being treated at a hospital in Iloilo City, while Dionson survived, as a result of the encounter, between 61st Infantry Battalion troopers and a group of rebels led by Nahum Camariosa, alias Bebong, in Barangay Igpaho, Tubungan.
Sison, who visited the wake of Alfanza at his fiancee’s residence in Calinog, Iloilo, personally turned over the initial cash assistance to Elizabeth Alegre Alfanza, mother of the slain soldier, aside from financial aid from the Department of Social Welfare and Development.
The dependents of Alfanza are also set to receive Special Financial Assistance from the Philippine Army; burial aid; and additional financial and other forms of support such as housing and livelihood from the Department of Justice, the National Housing Authority, and the Department of Trade and Industry, a statement from the 3ID said.
His family also received financial assistance from AFP-affiliated financial institutions such as PAFCPIC, AFPSLAI, AFPMBAI, & ACDI, the statement added.
Sison, accompanied by Lt. Col. Joseph Jason Estrada, 3ID Assistant Chief of Staff for Personnel, G1, also extended cash assistance to Sgt Dionson, who is currently confined at Camp Macario Peralta Station Hospital in Jamindan, Capiz.
He assured the family of the injured Army soldier that he is well taken-care of and provided with all medical services needed for his fast recovery.
This is not because it is called for by pertinent policies and regulations, but mainly because of the gratitude and recognition of their selfless service to our country and our people. They have exuded gallantry and bravery in the performance of their duties to defend and protect the peace and security, Sison further said.
The 3ID commander said he is hoping that the assistance that the Army provides brings relief and alleviates the burden of their loved ones during these challenging times.*
