Soldier from Enrile, Cagayan killed in Maguindanao encounter

Cagayan, Philippines – A soldier from Enrile, Cagayan sustained fatal injuries when he and his colleagues were fired at by a local terrorist group in Maguindanao Del Sur on July 21, 2024.

The casualty identified as Private Rosendo Gannaban with his fellow troops from the 99th Infantry Battalion(IB) were deployed for a checkpoint operation on said day in Barangay Pigatin, Salibo when they were attacked by an unidentified number of suspected local terrorists.

This triggered a 4-minute exchange of fire between the two groups which resulted in the injuries of Gannaban and two other troops, Sgt. Jomar Marin and PFC Lexter Lizardo.

Gannaban, unfortunately, succumbed to his wounds.

After learning about the encounter, the 5th Infantry Division(ID) Commander, MGen. Gulliver Señires, visited the 99th IB which is under the control of the 6th ID to check on the soldiers. He likewise awarded medals to Marin and Lizardo in recognition of their bravery.

Gannaban’s body was flown back to his hometown in Enrile, Cagayan on Tuesday, July 23.

MGen. Señires assured that all assistance and benefits will be given to the family of the slain soldier.

“Binigyang-diin ng pinuno ng 5ID na buhay man ng sundalo ang nasasakripisyo, mananatiling matatag ang kasundaluhan laban sa mga teroristang grupo at mananatiling tatayo para sa kapayapaan. Lubos din ang pakikidalamhati ng buong hanay ng 5ID sa pamilya at mga kaanak ni Pvt Gannaban,” the 5th Infantry Division wrote in their press release.