attack after assessing the situation. After 15 minutes of firefight, several Abu Sayaff members from nearby areas surprisingly reinforced their comrades, effectively cutting the troops from the supporting section. As the battle raged, the firepower and numerical superiority of the enemy became apparent as his men incurred casualties.
After two hours of continuous exchange of fire, Captain Sobejana was hit in the lower right forearm, but continued to hold his ground and inspired his men to fight on. Undaunted by the heavy fire from the enemy, he effectively led his men to repulse all assaults by the Abu Sayaff members.
Even after sustaining a second bullet wound that almost severed his right arm, he did not lose his composure but skillfully defended and held their position instead. Only after sustaining a third gunshot wound and after an enemy bullet shattered his rifle did he stop shooting.
In pain and anguish, he repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire in order to direct his men while personally manning the radio at the same time. Unmindful of his wounds and personal safety, Captain Sobejana bit his dangling right arm and continued giving orders to his men. The safety of his men was his foremost consideration, even if danger and death was already in front of him. He was able to survive the battle but it has left indelible marks and scars not only in his body but more so, in his memory.
Captain Sobejana (promoted already as Major) has kept with the finest traditions of Filipino soldiery by displaying his heroism. He is a living testimony of a true and dedicated soldier who braved his battles and carried out his duties with extraordinary gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life, above and beyond the call of duty in a daring action against overwhelming enemy forces.
