8 soldiers, 3 civilians hurt in ambush

CABADBARAN, Agusan del Norte — At least eight soldiers and three civilians were wounded when New People’s Army (NPA) rebels ambushed the truck they were riding in Jabonga, Agusan del Norte last Tuesday afternoon.

In a report, Lt. Col. Francisco Simbajon, spokesman of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division, said the soldiers belong to a 30-man military combo, which was requested by officials of Barangay Bangonay in Jabonga town to provide entertainment during a barangay celebration.

The soldiers, together with some civilians, were on their way to Barangay Bangonay on board a private Isuzu truck when they were waylaid at about 4:30 p.m. in Sitio Manganab.

The attackers, who belong to the NPA’s Front 16A, immediately withdrew as the soldiers returned fire, according to the military report.

The wounded were identified as Pfcs. Arnel Zambas, Joel Dalumos, Rolando Pelonio, Reuben Lago, Artemio Tacan, Leodegario Opema and Archie Efren, Cpl. Henry Leonor and civilians Jecer Ali, the truck driver, Miguel de la Peña, and Marcelino Constante.

They were rushed to a government hospital in Surigao City.

Simbajon said the soldiers’ combo helps the military foster good relations with barangay folk.