Kinsand Soldiers slain in Marawi attack re heroes

KIDAPAWAN CITY -Relatives of two soldiers killed during the recent Marawi attack grieved for the loss of their kin whom they regard as ‘heroes’ for giving their lives for ‘peace’s sake.’Among those killed during the May 22 attack in Marawi City were First Lieutenant John Carl Morales of Malvar Street, Poblacion, Kabacan, andSergeant Marlon Baldovino of Barangay Dagupan, also in Kabacan, North Cotabato.Marlon, 40, according to Joefel Baldovino, was hit by a sniper.He allegedly sustained gunshot wounds on his head that led to his untimely death. For us, Marlon is a hero.He has fought the good fight.ijust hope peace will reign in Mindanao after all these things, said Joefel, also a government soldier.Marlon belonged to an elite Special Forces and has been into several wars with different terror groups since he joined the Armed Forces in late ‘90s.Joefel said it was Marlon’s wife that informed them of his death right after his commanding officer broke down the news.Also killed during the Marawi attack on Tuesday was First Lieutenant Morales, who, just like Baldovino, was a member of the Special Forces.Their bodies are expected to arrive in Kabacan anytime this week, according to relatives.During the firefight between government forces and the Maute Terror Group, 12 others were also wounded, among them soldiers.The clash in Marawi City in Lanao del Sur was aimed at neutralizing Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon, who was spotted along with an estimated 15 followers in the area, many of them members of the Maute Terror Group.Hapilon is reportedly the representative of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) terror group in the Philippines.The bandits, according to reports, had occupied some establishments in Marawi City and held hostage few people, including a religious priest.