Military Report (2/12/13)

Davao City

Four soldiers were injured in a clash with NPA bandits in Sitio Basak, Lumiad village, Paquibato District, Davao City at 6:00am today. 

The troops of C/69IB led by 2nd Lt Brian Malinao was conducting security patrol when they spotted heavily armed bandits, triggering a brief clash. The bandits fled upon incurring casualties on their side.

The wounded soldiers were evacuated to a local hospital for treatment. They are now in stable condition according to the attending physicians.

Bulacan

The First Scout Ranger Regiment of the Philippine Army has welcomed its new commander, Col Eduardo 'Ed' Davalan, in a simple Change of Command ceremony presided by Army chief Lt Gen Noel Coballes at 9:00am today.

Brig Gen Abraham Bagasin, the outgoing commander, was elevated to the post as Deputy Commander of the Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM). 

Davalan had served the First Scout Ranger Regiment in various capacities starting as a Platoon Leader up to the time he commanded the 4th Scout Ranger Battalion in Sulu Province. 

Aside from finishing the tough Scout Ranger Course, Davalan also finished the US Special Forces Qualification Course and the US Ranger Course. 

Among his combat awards is the Gold Cross Medal for gallantry in action against NPA bandits.

 

Albay

One NPA bandit was killed while many others were injured after a clash with soldiers belonging to the Bravo Company, 2nd Infantry Battalion and a contingent of the local police force in Bgy Tobgon, Oas, Albay at around 9:25am today.

Four soldiers were also slightly injured in the said clash. The government forces confiscated a low-powered firearm in the encounter site. 

Zamboanga del Sur

Troops of the 14th Scout Ranger Company led by Cpt Wilvin Custodio clashed with at least 30 NPA bandits in Bgy Lantawan, Kumalarang, Zamboanga del Sur at around 1:15pm today.

The bandits withdrew in disarray, leaving behind traces of blood along their escape route. The soldiers have continuously pursued the bandits.