5 soldiers slain in battle with Abu Sayyaf returned to Isabela

CAUAYAN CITY — The flag-draped coffins of five Army soldiers killed in battle in Sulu province last week were flown back here on Monday night (Nov. 19).

Families and relatives received the remains of Corporal Renhart Macad of Tabuk City in Kalinga province; Corporal Bryan Apalin of Abra capital Bangued town; Corporal John Raphy Francisco of the Isabela City of Ilagan; Corporal Marlon Manuel of Cauayan; and Private First Class Jordan Labbutan of Rizal town, also in Kalinga.

The slain soldiers are recipients of posthumous promotions and gallantry awards, as well as death benefits and scholarship grants for their dependents, according to Army Major General Perfecto Rimando, 5th Infantry Division commander.

They fought around 50 suspected Abu Sayyaf Group members in Patikul town on Friday (Nov. 16). The conflict left 24 soldiers wounded.

Evelyn, mother of Corporal Manuel, said her son was home on September 25 to attend his child’s christening in this city.

“He used to call me before proceeding to an operation but I did not know that they went to Patikul,” said Noima, Manuel’s widow.

“This is the ultimate sacrifice our soldiers pay just to ensure that peace can be won in this part of the country,” the Army said in a statement.