CATARMAN, Northern Samar — A soldier was killed while a civilian was wounded in a gunfight between government troopers and members of the New People’s Army (NPA) on Saturday, Feb. 5.
Private First Class John Jeffrey Dabalos, a member of the 19th Infantry Battalion based in Northern Samar, succumbed to gunshot wounds on his body.
The civilian, who remained unidentified, was reportedly caught in the crossfire.
Deputy Brigade Commander Colonel Efren Morados said the soldier, along with his comrades, were on their way to Barangay Maligaya, Matuguinao town, Samar when they encountered about 15 communist rebels.
A firefight ensued, which led to the death of Dabalos.
The soldier’s body was brought to the St. Peter’s Funeral Homes in Catarman while the civilian was brought to a hospital here.
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