The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Thursday honored the soldiers of the 32nd Infantry Battalion who were wounded during a clash in Basilan.
AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. awarded the Wounded Personnel Medal to soldiers in recognition of their courage and heroism during his visit to the Western Mindanao Command (WESMINCOM).
Brawner commended the soldiers and guaranteed them and their families that all necessary support would be provided, including the best medical care and recovery assistance.
"Our soldiers are the backbone of our national defense, and the bravery demonstrated by these personnel exemplifies the true meaning of selflessness and sacrifice," Gen. Brawner stated.
"The AFP stands firmly behind them, and we will ensure they are provided with the necessary resources for a full recovery," he added.
Furthermore, as part of the AFP's ongoing efforts to strengthen security operations in Mindanao, Brawner visited the 101st Infantry Brigade headquarters, accompanied by WESMINCOM Commander Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete and 11th Infantry Division Commander Maj. Gen. Leonardo Peña.
During the visit, General Brawner received a comprehensive security briefing from Brig. Gen. Alvin Luzon, Commander of the 101st Infantry Brigade.
The AFP then reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the normalization program in the region, which seeks to address the root causes of conflict while ensuring that all actions adhere to legal frameworks and peace mechanisms.
On Wednesday, four people, including two soldiers, were killed, and 12 others were injured in a clash with lawless elements reportedly backed by peace spoiler members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
The clash took place at 4 p.m. in Barangay Lower Cabengbeng while soldiers were providing security for United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) staff working on a peace and development project in the town.
