Remains of Fil-Am killed in Iraq now in Bohol

TAGBILARAN CITY — US Army Sgt. Myla Lumayag Maravillosa, the first Filipino-American woman soldier killed in Iraq, is finally home.

The remains of the 24-year-old Maravillosa, who completed her elementary and high school here, were met at the airport the other day by Bohol officials led by Gov. Erico Aumentado.

"Boholanos are proud of Myla as she carried the flag against global terrorism," Aumentado told Myla’s mother Estelita.

Two US soldiers were also at the airport to welcome Myla’s remains in a casket draped with a US flag.

More US military personnel are expected here to attend Myla’s interment on Jan. 19 in Inabanga town, where her remains were transported the other day.

Also present to welcome Myla back were the students and nuns of Holy Spirit School, where she studied in high school.

The students, together with pupils of the U-og Elementary School, where Myla also studied, waved Philippine and US flags.