Army Capt. Lowen Gil Marquez, of the 47th Infantry Battalion based in Panay Island, chose to fight New People’s Army (NPA) rebels who attacked a CAFGU detachment in Colombio, Sultan Kudarat last Sunday even when he was supposed to be off duty.
At least two rebels were reportedly killed while five others were wounded in the firefight that lasted for at least two hours.
Marquez himself was briefly taken hostage by the guerrillas, but managed to free himself and kill two of his captors.
"The rebels intercepted me while I was already near the detachment. They hogtied me but they were not able tie it well so I was able to break free. I immediately grabbed the M16 armalite rifle of one of my captors who was busy talking to their platoon leader," Marquez said.
Marquez was reportedly also a recipient of a "gold cross" award after he was instrumental in the recovery of six Chinese nationals who were kidnapped in Colombio early last year.
Lt. Col. Danilo Estropia, commanding officer of the 47th IB, said he would recommend a medal of valor for Marquez.