127 first responders honored as heroes in Cagayan

MANILA, Philippines—At least 120 soldiers and seven other first responders in Cagayan province’s worst flooding in decades were given recognition for their heroic acts.

The first responders were awarded the Bronze Cross Medal and Disaster Relief and Rehabilitation Operation Ribbon in Tuguegarao City on Sunday (Nov. 22), according to the military’s Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom).

The awardees evacuated 2,485 families, or some 9,869 individuals, trapped on their roofs and stuck in their homes by floodwaters at the height of Typhoon Ulysses.

Cagayan Gov. Manuel Mamba pinned the medals. Witnessing the ceremony were Lt. Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr., Nolcom chief, and Maj. Gen. Laurence Minda, commander of the Philippine Army’s 5th Infantry Division.

“Your significant and active role…during the massive flooding has saved many lives,” said Mamba.

“We will forever be grateful of (sic) your heroic deeds which were irrefutable proof of your dedication, commitment, professionalism and courage,” he said.

“Thank you for your service to the people of Cagayan,” the governor added.

Burgos vowed that the Nolcom would remain “steadfast in our mandate as defenders of the North, guardians of our sovereignty and protectors of the Filipino people.”

TSB