Rescued Filipina-American’s mother thanks AFP, Army unit
Photo shows Chantal at 2ID receiving care after Jan 8 rescue in Mindoro (L), mom’s letter thanking AFP (M) and the emotional embrace before US return on Jan 30 (R).
2ID, PA
Daily TribunePhoto shows Chantal at 2ID receiving care after Jan 8 rescue in Mindoro (L), mom’s letter thanking AFP (M) and the emotional embrace before US return on Jan 30 (R).
2ID, PA
CAMP CAPINPIN, Rizal — The mother of rescued Filipina-American Chantal Anicoche has expressed gratitude to the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the 2nd Infantry Division following her daughter’s safe return to the United States on 30 January 2026, the military said.
In a letter shared by the AFP, the mother thanked soldiers for what she described as their professionalism, compassion and care during the rescue and subsequent medical treatment of her daughter.
“I am truly humbled to extend my deepest gratitude… for the extraordinary professionalism, kindness, and compassion you demonstrated towards my daughter, Chantal, during her rescue and throughout her ongoing medical care,” the letter read.
She said the family remains grateful for the swift actions taken to ensure Anicoche’s safety, citing careful coordination, humanitarian assistance and respect shown during a difficult period. She also thanked the troops for prioritizing the family’s security during their stay in the Philippines.
Anicoche was rescued on 8 January in Barangay Cabacao, Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro, after she was reportedly abandoned by her companions amid clashes between government troops and elements of the New People’s Army. She was given immediate medical attention at an Army station hospital.
Before her return to the United States, the Kabataan Partylist and other leftist groups called for Anicoche’s release, saying she was missing following what they described as excessive AFP bombings during the New Year period. The groups also sought an independent humanitarian mission, called for justice for the so-called Cabacao 5 massacre, and linked the incident to alleged corporate interests in Mindoro.
2nd Infantry Division spokesperson Michael Aquino said the letter reflects the Army’s values.
“Our duty is to protect lives and uphold human dignity,” Aquino said. “We remain committed to carrying out our mission with professionalism and compassion.”
The 2nd Infantry Division said people-centered operations remain central to its service to the nation.