Manila: Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. honored the sacrifice of the Philippine Army soldier who was killed in a clash with New People's Army (NPA) remnants in Escalante City, Negros Occidental on June 1.
According to Philippines News Agency, Teodoro visited the wake of 29-year-old Private First Class Johnrey Brasil, a member of the 79th Infantry Battalion (79IB), at the FDN Memorial Chapel in Sagay City on Wednesday afternoon. During a media interview, Teodoro expressed his admiration for Brasil, stating, "He died an honorable death. He led from the front. He died honorably in the field of encounter."
The defense chief extended his condolences to Brasil's 24-year-old widow, Nicole, who has been married to the fallen soldier for more than a year. Teodoro acknowledged the profound pain of the loss, sharing that Brasil joined the Army after witnessing the challenges posed by NPA rebels in Iloilo. "Masakit talaga na ito nangyari. Kaya sya nag-sundalo dahil sa Iloilo naranasan niya yung buhay na maraming NPA. Naging inspirasyon sa kanya ang mga sundalo at sinunod niya yung buhay," Teodoro remarked.
Originally from Guimbal, Iloilo, Brasil began his training to become a soldier at the age of 19. He actively participated in the Youth for Peace Movement - Northern Negros Chapter, contributing as a facilitator and speaker during youth leadership activities.
Teodoro highlighted that Brasil led a team of soldiers pursuing rebels who posed a danger to civilians by using them as human shields. This encounter, he stated, reinforces the military's stance that their operations target armed rebels, not civilians. He called for accountability from those questioning the actions of the Armed Forces, emphasizing the importance of Brasil's sacrifice.
Teodoro urged Negrenses to support the military's campaign against insurgency, emphasizing the operations are intended to foster progress and development in Negros. He also called upon local government officials in Negros Occidental to take a stand against the presence of the NPA in their communities, assuring them of the Philippine Army's support in this endeavor.
On April 19, the 79IB troops encountered NPA remnants in neighboring Toboso town, resulting in the deaths of 19 rebel combatants, including Roger Fabillar Tapang, leader of the dismantled Northern Negros Front.
