• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Army soldiers provided an immediate medical assistance to a wounded member of the New People’s Army, who was reportedly abandoned by his comrades following a series of encounters in Negros Occidental on May 16.
In a statement, the Philippine Army said soldiers from the 15th Infantry Battalion discovered the wounded rebel during clearing operations in Barangays Abaca and Poblacion, Cauayan. Cauayan.
The injured rebel identified only by the alias “Joey,” 21, and a resident of Sipalay City, sustained gunshot wounds to his leg and buttocks, along with a minor injury to his hip, during armed clashes.
Army troops immediately administered first aid and provided humanitarian assistance, including food, clean clothing, and other essential needs.
The military said the wounded rebel was first brought to Isio District Hospital for emergency treatment and stabilization before being transferred to Kabankalan District Hospital, where he underwent minor surgical procedures and continued medical care.
After his condition stabilized, alias “Joey” was formally turned over to the Philippine National Police for documentation and custodial processing in accordance with legal and operational procedures.
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,’ who was abandoned by his comrades.”*
