Albayano soldier killed in Marawi returns home after 6 months

The family of Private Alejandro Balean, a Marawi hero, finally had his body home to bury in his hometown of Sto. Domingo, Albay. Photo by Michael B. Jaucian, Inquirer Southern Luzon

STO. DOMINGO, Albay—-After six months, the body of Private Alejandro Balean finally reached his hometown on Friday morning.

Balean, a member of the 7th Marine Company of the Marine Battalion Landing Team 7, was given full military honors by his comrades at Pugad Lawin Park in front of Sto. Domingo Municipal Hall.

Balean, 27, a resident of Lidong village here, was the 168th slain soldier who fought against Maute terrorists in Marawi City. He was killed on August 5, 2017 when the Maute terror group bombed the bridge where he was positioned.

Due to the impact, he fell off the river and was washed away by the strong current, which resulted to the delay in the recovery of his body.

“We treat him as our hero. The bravery he showed in fighting just to get rid of terrorists is very extraordinary and indeed [we are] very appreciative,” Mayor Herbie Aguas said.

Aside from military honors, the local government handed P20,000 cash as financial assistance to Balean’s bereaved family.