President Duterte has commended wounded soldiers and policemen for their bravery to secure the country against the lawless acts perpetrated by Abu Sayyaf Group, Malacañang said yesterday.
Duterte honored the 10 military personnel and three police officers who recently sustained injuries in separate clashes with Abu Sayyaf in Patikul, Sulu by bestowing the Kampilan medal on them.
The award was given to the recuperating troops during the President’s visit to Camp Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital in Jolo, Sulu the other day.
“As your commander-in-chief, I move forward with you as we advance the common good and promote the security of our nation,” the President said. “We thank you for risking your lives to protect us from elements that threaten the security of our country,” he added.
Recipients of the medal were 1st Lt. Vergara Geronimo, Sgt. Vicente Calvin Belino Jr., Corporals Ariel Gormonit and Cornelio Olandag, Privates First Class Albert Aras, Jezzer Ea, Jay-Arr Redula, Francis Ybañez, John Carlo Casintahan, and Glenn Acayan; Police Senior Master Sgt. Adil Salamat, Police Chief Master Sgt. Abdulmuidz Marajani, and Police Corporal Halkim Ibno.
The Order of Lapu-Lapu, Rank of Kampilan, is awarded to an individual, who was seriously wounded or suffered great loss of property, as a result of his participation in activity pursuant to a campaign or advocacy of the President.
Salamat, Marajani, Ibno, and a militiaman were wounded in an ambush staged by the ASG in Barangay Buhanginan last Dec. 4. The 10 soldiers were wounded in a 30-minute clash with the ASG in Sitio Tambang, Barangay Kabbon Takas, last Dec. 7.
Duterte thanked members of 11th Infantry Division stationed in Camp Teodulfo Bautista for their efforts and sacrifices to serve and protect the country against the Islamist militants. (PNA)
