SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Sunday night offered heartfelt condolences to the family of a soldier who lost his life in the line of duty during a firefight between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and suspected New People’s Army (NPA) communist rebels in Balayan, Batangas.
According to reports, six suspected NPA members also lost their lives in a gun battle Sunday involving joint forces from the Philippine Army’s 59th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Navy, and Philippine Air Force. Three soldiers were wounded and promptly transported to Medical Center Western Batangas for medical treatment.
“I extend my deepest sympathies to the family of our soldier who bravely gave his life in the line of duty in Balayan, Batangas,” Speaker Romualdez, the leader of the 300 plus-strong House of Representatives, said.
The Speaker’s words echoed the gravity of the sacrifices made by the AFP in safeguarding the nation, drawing attention to the ongoing challenges in achieving lasting peace and stability.
“This loss is a profound reminder of the sacrifices our armed forces make to ensure our nation’s security,” the House chief pointed out. “This event underscores the ongoing challenges we face in achieving lasting peace and stability.”
Speaker Romualdez expressed solidarity with the wounded soldiers, assuring them of the government’s unwavering support.
“We also keep in our thoughts those who were wounded in this incident, and we join the Executive Department in assuring their families of the government’s full support during this difficult time,” he said.
Meanwhile, Speaker Romualdez appealed to insurgents, urging them to reconsider the consequences of their actions and choose the path of peace.
“In this light, I earnestly appeal to the insurgents to consider the broader implications of their actions on our country and its people. I urge them to abandon the path of violence and to rejoin the fold of the law,” he said.
Speaker Romualdez emphasized the government’s commitment to reconciliation and dedicated efforts to assist those willing to choose the path of peaceful reintegration into society.
The Speaker concluded his statement by underscoring the collective effort required to realize a vision for a peaceful and prosperous Philippines.
“Our vision for a peaceful and prosperous Philippines can only be realized through collective efforts and a commitment to dialogue and understanding,” the House leader stressed.
“Let us all work towards building a nation where every citizen can live in peace and pursue their aspirations without fear,” he added.
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