Two Wounded Rebels Arrested in Sultan Kudarat Clash
LEBAK, Sultan Kudarat (June 21) – Government forces arrested two wounded rebels after a clash in Sultan Kudarat town Kalamansig that left multiple casualties. The two injured guerrillas were apprehended on Saturday following a firefight that claimed the lives of three rebels and one soldier the day before.
Authorities seized a rifle from the rebels and immediately provided medical care. This successful operation highlights the critical role of local community cooperation in assisting government troops.
Details of the Clash and Arrest
Lieutenant Colonel Christopherson M. Capuyan, commanding officer of the Army’s 37th Infantry Battalion, confirmed that the arrested New People’s Army (NPA) fighters are minors, aged 16 and 17. They are currently receiving treatment at a military hospital.
Both sustained wounds during a fierce midnight firefight last Friday in Barangay Datu Ito Andong, Kalamansig. After the encounter, the rebels fled but were later located thanks to civilians who reported their presence in Sitio Maugan, Barangay Datu Ito.
Capuyan said, “This successful apprehension is a testament to the strong partnership between our military forces, Philippine National Police, and the peace-loving people of Kalamansig. Their willingness to share critical information directly led to the capture of these wounded individuals.”
Rebel Transport and Medical Care
The wounded rebels did not resist when soldiers arrived at their location around 9 a.m. on Saturday. They were transported by military ambulance to the Kalamansig municipal health unit before being handed over to the town police office for documentation.
Later that afternoon, they were moved to Camp Siongco Station Hospital (CSSH), the Army division’s health facility in Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte.
Honoring the Fallen Soldier
Meanwhile, Major General Donald Gumiran, commander of the 6th Infantry Division, awarded the Military Merit Medal posthumously to Corporal JayR Baay of the 37th Infantry Battalion. Baay was killed during Friday’s clash.
The ceremony took place during Baay’s send-off on Saturday, where he also received a posthumous promotion. Financial assistance was extended to his widow as a mark of respect and support for the soldier’s family.
Local leaders noted the importance of unity between the military and civilians in maintaining peace and security in Sultan Kudarat.
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