By Perla Lena
ILOILO CITY – A series of encounters between government forces and remnants of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Tapaz, Capiz, on Monday left one member of the Philippine Army’s 12th Infantry Battalion (12IB) of the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) dead and another injured.
A statement released by the 3ID on Tuesday said Sergeant Jhon Ray Coopera was killed in action after sustaining a fatal gunshot wound on his lower abdomen during the second encounter at Barangay Agpalali around 10:28 a.m.
Meanwhile, another sergeant who was wounded in action is now in stable condition in a hospital.
The first encounter happened around 7:45 a.m. in the same barangay against around 10 remnants of the dismantled Central Front and Regional Sentro de Grabidad, Komiteng Rehiyon–Panay (KR-P) of the New People’s Army.
Government troops were on pursuit operations following a series of clashes in the tri-boundary of Barangays Agpalali, Artuz, and Tabon in Tapaz on Aug. 22.
3ID commander, Maj. Gen. Michael Samson, assured full support to the families of Coopera and the wounded soldier.
“We will provide all necessary assistance to Sergeant Coopera’s family and ensure that our wounded soldier receives the best possible care and support during his recovery. We will honor their sacrifices not only with words but also with concrete actions,” Samson said as he expressed his profound respect for the courage and dedication of the slain soldier.
He added Coopera’s death will strengthen their unwavering resolve to totally eliminate the remaining CTG remnants and end their terroristic acts.
“The fight for peace continues, and we will carry Sergeant Coopera’s legacy forward with steadfast determination,” he said.
Meanwhile, on Aug. 22, government troops recovered five high-powered firearms, including two M14 assault rifles, an M16 assault rifle, one AK-47 assault rifle, and one Garand rifle in Barangay Agpalali. (PNA)
