5 soldiers get medals for killing jihadists

MANILA, Philippines – Five soldiers who were part of the operations against the Abu Sayyaf  in Al- Barka, Basilan last month have received medals.

Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Hernando Iriberri pinned the Gold Cross on Cpl. Jayson Cases and Military Merit Medals on Pfcs. Rolan Balada, Jenus Gastar, Ruel Tabon and Mike Elumba during his visit to the 104th Infantry Brigade in Tabiawan, Isabela City yesterday.

Twenty-six Abu Sayyaf bandits and Malaysian jihadist Mohammad Najib Hussein were killed during the military offensive. Hussein reportedly trained Abu Sayyaf bandits on bomb making.

The soldiers are members of the 104th Infantry Brigade led by Col. Rolando Joselito Bautista.