FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City – The Philippine Army is mourning the loss of an officer killed in action and ensuring the well-being of soldiers wounded in a recent encounter in Occidental Mindoro. On March 30, 2026, Army Chief Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete visited the wake of 1Lt. Dean B. Oyando and attended to wounded troops at the Victoriano Luna General Hospital.
Army Chief Pays Respects to Fallen Officer
Lt. Gen. Nafarrete visited the Libingan ng mga Bayani to pay his respects to 1Lt. Oyando, who was killed on March 29, 2026, during a crossfire with members of the CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front) in Brgy. Monteclaro, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. The visit underscores the Army's commitment to honoring those who make the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation.
Wounded Soldiers Receive Support and Encouragement
During his visit to the Victoriano Luna General Hospital on March 30, 2026, Lt. Gen. Nafarrete spoke with two soldiers wounded in the same clash: Cpl John Ryan D. Dango and Cpl Ramche M. Perez. He conferred a Wounded Personnel Medal to Cpl. Dango. Both soldiers recounted the events of the encounter to the Army Chief.
👉 Fast Charging 20000mAh Power Bank — ₱119 on Lazada — check price here
Lt. Gen. Nafarrete assured the wounded soldiers that the Army would provide assistance to ensure their full and immediate recovery. This commitment reflects the Army's dedication to the welfare of its personnel, both in and out of combat situations. The Army recognizes the sacrifices made by its soldiers and is committed to providing them with the support they need to heal and return to duty.
Remembering the Battle in Brgy. Monteclaro
The clash in Brgy. Monteclaro highlights the ongoing efforts by the Philippine Army to combat insurgency and maintain peace and order in the country. The encounter with remnants of the CPP-NPA-NDF demonstrates the challenges faced by soldiers on the front lines. The Army leadership vows to continue its efforts to protect life and liberty in line of duty, and honors the selfless service of its troops against perpetrators who threaten the peace of the nation.
Army's Commitment to Protecting the Nation
The Philippine Army has reiterated its commitment to protecting the life and liberty of Filipinos, and to honoring the selfless service of its troops who are battling those who threaten national peace. These recent events in Occidental Mindoro are a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers in the line of duty. The Army has a long history of confronting various threats to national security, from communist insurgents to terrorist groups. This commitment is rooted in the Army's mandate to uphold the Constitution and protect the sovereignty of the Philippines.
Continuing Operations Against Insurgency
The clash in Occidental Mindoro is part of a broader effort by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to combat insurgency across the country. While the CPP-NPA-NDF has been weakened in recent years, it continues to pose a threat in certain regions. The AFP conducts regular operations to dismantle insurgent camps, disrupt their activities, and bring them to justice. These operations often involve close coordination with local communities and government agencies.
👉 Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 8GB+256GB — ₱7,799 on Lazada — check price here
Providing Support to Affected Communities
Beyond military operations, the Philippine Army also plays a role in providing support to communities affected by conflict and natural disasters. Soldiers often assist in disaster relief efforts, providing food, shelter, and medical assistance to those in need. They also participate in community development projects, such as building schools and infrastructure. This multifaceted approach reflects the Army's commitment to serving the Filipino people in all aspects of their lives.
The Significance of the Wounded Personnel Medal
The Wounded Personnel Medal, conferred upon Cpl. Dango by Lt. Gen. Nafarrete, is a symbol of the sacrifices made by soldiers who are injured in the line of duty. It recognizes their courage, resilience, and commitment to serving the nation, even in the face of adversity. The medal serves as a reminder of the human cost of conflict and the importance of providing adequate support to wounded soldiers.
Lt. Gen. Nafarrete's Leadership and Dedication
Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete's presence at both the wake of 1Lt. Oyando and the bedside of the wounded soldiers demonstrates his leadership and dedication to the well-being of his troops. His actions send a clear message that the Army cares for its personnel and values their sacrifices. Such leadership is essential for maintaining morale and fostering a sense of camaraderie within the ranks.
Remembering Those Who Serve
The events of the past few days serve as a reminder of the dedication and sacrifice of the men and women who serve in the Philippine Army. They risk their lives every day to protect the country and its citizens. It is important for the public to remember their service and to support them in their mission. Showing support for the troops can take many forms, from expressing gratitude to providing assistance to their families.
Looking Ahead: The Army's Future
The Philippine Army continues to modernize and adapt to the evolving security landscape. It is investing in new technologies and training programs to enhance its capabilities. The Army is also working to strengthen its relationships with local communities and other government agencies. By embracing innovation and collaboration, the Army can better fulfill its mission of protecting the nation and serving the Filipino people.
Photo credit: SSg. Cesar P. Lopez I PA/OCPA
👉 Mini UPS Battery Backup for WiFi Router — ₱243 on Lazada — check price here