President Rodrigo Duterte has commended 10 soldiers and three policemen who were wounded in recent separate clashes with the Abu Sayyaf Group in Patikul, Sulu.
President Duterte visited the wounded personnel at Camp Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital in Jolo, Sulu on Saturday where he bestowed the Kampilan medal on them.
“As your Commander-in-Chief, I move forward with you as we advance the common good and promote the security of our nation,” Duterte said.
“We thank you for risking your lives to protect us from elements that threaten the security of our country,” he added.
Recipients of Kampilan medal are 1Lt. 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 M/Sgt. Adil Salamat; Police Chief M/Sgt. Abdulmuidz Marajani; and Police Cpl. 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.
The soldiers and policemen were wounded during the Dec. 4 and 7 armed encounters with members of the ASG.
“To our brave soldiers who are with us today, you are here because you have answered the call to serve your nation by ensuring peaceful and safe communities for all,” the President said.
