Fallen soldier in Escalante clash laid to rest

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion (IB) rendered full military honors, including a 21-gun salute, during the interment of Private First Class John Rey Brasil at Rojas Cemetery in Barangay Kansilayan, Murcia, Negros Occidental, on Saturday, after a monthlong wake.

Brasil, 29, a native of Guimbal, Iloilo, was laid to rest in the hometown of his wife, two days after she celebrated her birthday.

Brasil was killed in an armed encounter between the 79th IB and remnants of the dismantled Northern Negros Front (NNF-D) in Barangay Tamlang, Escalante City, Negros Occidental, on June 1.

The 79th IB stands with his family in mourning the loss of a comrade whose commitment as a soldier was defined by his courage and service to the nation.

They ensured that his contributions and the noble legacy of his service remain deeply respected and remembered by all.

In a Facebook post, his 25-year-old wife, Nicole, paid tribute to the bravery of her husband, who dedicated his life to serving the country with courage, loyalty, and honor.

“You answered the call to protect others without hesitation, even when it meant making the ultimate sacrifice. You wore your uniform with pride, and our nation honors you as a fallen hero,” Nicole said.

“You have fought your last battle with honor, courage, and selflessness,” she added.

The couple tied the knot in January 2025 and celebrated their first wedding anniversary this year.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Rio Ranillo Mallanao was assigned as the new commander of the 94th IB, replacing Lt. Col. Ziegfred Tayaban, who was reassigned to the 3rd Infantry Division (ID) headquarters in Jamindan, Capiz.

Major Gen. Michael Samson, 3ID commander, presided over the turnover of command ceremony at the battalion headquarters in Barangay Libas, Isabela town, two weeks ago.

Mallanao is a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Mandarangal” Class of 2003 and previously served as the brigade executive officer of the 303rd Infantry Brigade (IBde) prior to his assumption.

In his message, Mallanao pledged to sustain the gains achieved by the battalion and further strengthen its commitment to protecting communities, supporting government peace initiatives, and fostering partnerships with stakeholders in pursuit of lasting peace and progress in central Negros.