GAMU, Isabela – Two soldiers were killed and four others were injured by a lightning strike during a thunderstorm while they were conducting a security operation against the New People’s Army in the boundary of Barangay Western Uma, Lubuagan and Barangay Balatoc, Pasil, Kalinga on Sunday, May 12.
The 5th Infantry Division identified the fatalities as Corporal Andrew Monterubio of Gamu, Isabela and Private First Class Inmongog Aronchay from Sadanga, Mountain Province.
Injured were Sgt. Dennis Bananao of Tanudan, Kalinga and Privates First Class Melvin Dangalan of Paracelis, Mountain Province, Abegil Awingan from Pinukpuk, Kalinga, and Riel Angya of Pasil, Kalinga.
The 5th ID led by Major Gen. Audrey Pasia condoled with the families of the fatalities.
The Army thanked Mayor Joel B. Tagoatao for providing assistance to the victims.
"We are grateful for the efforts of the medical professionals and authorities who provided immediate medical attention and care to the injured soldiers."
“This unfortunate event serves as a reminder of our military personnel's risks and dangers, and we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring their safety and well-being,” the Army added.
“We urge the public to take precautionary measures during thunderstorms and to follow the guidelines provided by the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) to prevent accidents and ensure everyone's safety.”