Army honors soldier slain in Labo, CNorte

By Ana-liza Macatangay

The Philippine Army 9th Infantry Battalion (9IB)commander paid tribute to the bravery and heroism of the soldier who died in an encounter with the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Barangay Kanapawan, Labo, Camarines Norte, recently.

Colonel Clito R. Lelina, 9IB commander, identified the hero as Private First Class John Niko J. Bolaño who was killed in a bloody firefight with the rebels while he was protecting the community.

In his alma mater’s facebook post, the Sorsogon College of Criminology, Inc., the institution lauded Bolaño’s heroism and mourned his untimely demise. Bolaño belonged to Class Matatas 2017.

“Kabayanihan po ang ginawa ng ating tropa, isang patunay ito na hindi kami takot na harapin ang mga terorista kahit ano man ang kapalit nito. Lahat ng ito ay para sa sambayanan,” Lelina said.

Aside from the slain government trooper, a unidentified rebel was also killed during the armed encounter. His body was left by his comrades who fled in unknown direction, Lelina said.