President Duterte Visits Wounded PSG Troops, Commends their Bravery

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte checks the condition of Staff Sergeant Arniel Matunhay during the President’s visit at Camp Panacan Station Hospital in Davao City on July 20, 2017. Torsal, who was conferred with a wounded personnel medal during the President’s visit, was one of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) personnel wounded in an encounter against the New People’s Army in Arakan, North Cotabato on July 19. RICHARD MADELO/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

DAVAO CITY — President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Thursday, July 20, visited wounded-in-action (WIA) members of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) and commended their presence of mind and bravery following the clash against members of the New People’s Army ( NPA).

The Chief Executive personally visited the wounded PSG members at Camp Panacan Station Hospital, Naval Station Felix Apolinario here in Davao City to boost their morale.

The soldiers were wounded in a firefight that ensued following an ambush by the NPA at Arakan, North Cotabato on July 19.

During his visit, President Duterte personally pinned the wounded personnel medal to each soldier and extended financial assistance. He also gave each of the soldiers a smartphone and a gun.

The PSG troops visited by the President were Staff Sergeant Gerry Torsar; Staff Sergeant Arniel Matunhay; Staff Sergeant Rolito Lisondra; Corporal Ayam Alia; and Corporal Rodel Ledesma.

The President then went to converse with the PSG troops who fought in the encounter. He gave a salute to the troops and commended their presence of mind and skill in the incident.

“Sundalo talaga,” he praised.

Before he left, President Duterte promised the soldiers a meal in his camp.

After his visit, the President then left to practice for his upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA).###PND

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