City OKs P2M-aid for families of slain gov’t forces in Bohol

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City Council has approved the P2-million financial assistance for the families of three soldiers and a police officer who died in the clash with terrorist group Abu Sayyaf in Bohol last April.

In its regular session last June 20, the legislative body approved the resolution of Councilor David Tumulak.

“These soldiers were also part of the 47th Infantry Battalion Philippine Army which helped the authorities in maintaining peace and order of the city,” Tumulak told members of the City Council.

On April 11, security personnel identified as Second Lieutenant Estilito Saldua, Sergeant John Dexter Duero, Corporal Meljune Cajaban, and Police Officer 2 Rey Anthony Nazareno were killed during an encounter with suspected Abu Sayaff members in Bohol.

In the resolution, the families of the slain soldiers will be given P500,000 each by the city government.

“These government troopers maintained their strong defenses during their encounter with suspected Abu Sayyaf members just to defend the innocent civilians and for the establishment of peace and order in the whole of Inabanga, Bohol,” the resolution reads.

Tumulak said there was a possibility that terrorism could have reached the island of Cebu if the clash in Bohol was not contained.

He said the slain soldiers are “real heroes” for sacrificing their lives to protect the people.

“The Cebu City Government will give half a million pesos in financial assistance each to families of the three soldiers and a police officer who died during the encounter,” he said.

The amount will be charged against the city’s Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) funds.

As of last month, the city has at least P76 million in its coffers under the Pagcor funds. The City Treasurer’s Office has already issued the availability of funds.

Mayor Tomas Osmeña and Pagcor Chairman Andrea Domingo have approved the charging of the amount to Pagcor.

Tumulak said the wives of the slain troopers will be the one to claim the money from the city. (FREEMAN)