Soldier faces dismissal for drugs, illegal logging
DAVAO CITY, Philippines – A soldier held captive for 16 days and was recently released by the New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas is facing dismissal from service for allegedly using illegal drugs and being involved in illegal logging in the hinterlands of Davao del Norte.
Cpl. Rogelio Rosales of the Army’s 60th Infantry Battalion (IB) was found guilty by his superiors of violating the Articles of War 97, said Capt. Ernest Carolina, spokesman for the Army’s 10th Infantry Division.
Carolina said Rosales committed acts prejudicial to military discipline and discredits the entire organization.
He said Rosales reportedly admitted in a sworn statement his use of shabu, which was one of the allegations the NPA hurled against him during his 16 days in captivity.
Rosales, however, denied involvement in illegal logging, as alleged by the rebels.
Lt. Col. Roberto Bunagan, commander of the 60th IB, said Rosales’ drug test results, which were negative, are now irrelevant and the soldier is liable to administrative punishment.
Carolina said the recommendation on Rosales’ dismissal is still subject to approval by the higher officials in the Philippine Army.
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