28/08/2025
Wounded 3ID Soldiers in Tapaz Clashes Feted
CAMP PERALTA, Jamindan, Capiz – The Army’s 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division (3ID) awarded the Wounded Personnel Medal to two soldiers of the 12th Infantry Battalion (12IB) on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at Camp General Macario Peralta, Jamindan, Capiz.
Major General Michael G. Samson, commander of the 3ID, personally conferred the medals to the wounded soldiers—one with the rank of Private and the other a Sergeant—who are now in stable condition and receiving medical care at the Camp Peralta Station Hospital.
The two soldiers were part of the operating troops of the 12IB who courageously engaged remnants of the dismantled guerrilla fronts—Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay’s Central Front and Sentro De Grabidad—in a series of encounters at the tri-boundary of Barangays Agpalali, Artuz, and Tabon in Tapaz, Capiz."
The Private sustained a minor shrapnel wound on his left shoulder during clashes on August 22, while the Sergeant suffered gunshot wounds to his left shoulder and right hand in a separate encounter in Barangay Agpalali on August 25.
The August 22 encounter led to the seizure of five high-powered fi****ms, while the August 25 clash resulted in the death of Sgt. Jhon Ray Coopera, who succumbed to a fatal gunshot wound to the lower abdomen.
In his remarks, MGen. Samson honored the heroism of the wounded soldiers, describing their actions as a testament to the unwavering courage and commitment of every Spearhead Trooper in fulfilling the aspirations of the people of Western and Central Visayas, and the Negros Island Region—for a peaceful and progressive future.
“Your valor in the face of danger embodies the true spirit of a Spearhead Trooper. May your courage inspire others to carry the torch of peace and progress, not only in Tapaz but throughout all three regions,” he added.
(3ID press release)
