Manila, Philippines – Vice President Jejomar C. Binay awarded P30,000 cash assistance to at least 15 families of soldiers killed in Al-Barka, Basilan last October 18.
Binay, co-chairman of the Alay Sa Kawal Foundation (ASK) which is the oldest non-governmental organization devoted to the welfare of enlisted personnel in the AFP, distributed P30,000 each to 15 families at the Coconut Palace in Pasay City.
“Maliit na tulong lamang ito kumpara sa sakripisyo’t hirap na dinaranas ng ating mga sundalo para sa bayan,” said Binay who is a Marines reserved officer with the rank of colonel.
“Alam po naming hindi matutumabasan ng anumang halaga ang pagkawala ng isang mahal sa buhay,” he added.
The 15 soldiers belonging to the Army Special Forces were killed in an ambush staged by alleged joint Abu Sayyaf and Moro Islamic Liberation Front members in Basilan. Those who were killed in action were PFC Jordan Magno, PFC Dennis R. Bulan, PFC Michael D. Miguel, PFC Jordan D. Olivar, PFC Ervin O. Dequito, PFC Jonis S. Rigor, PFC Roberto M. Ricafrancia, PFC Emerson C. Tugas, PVT Garry G. Colonia, SGT Ronald G. Sta. Rita, CPL Roderick J. Cabucana, SGT Andy Bonifacio R. Mabalot, PFC Renie V. Arcigia, PFC Rommel L. Ondivila, PFC Marc Ted A. Quiban.
The Vice President told the relatives that he too wishes for an end to the Mindanao conflict. (Nonoy E. Lacson)