89 PH workers sent to Myanmar post-quake awarded for dedication, bravery
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. poses for a photo with members of the Philippine humanitarian contingent sent to Myanmar during a ceremony recognizing them for their dedication and bravery on Friday, July 4, 2025. — Photo by Gabryelle Dumalag
MANILA, Philippines — Members of the Philippine Inter-Agency Humanitarian Contingent who were deployed to Myanmar to provide critical humanitarian assistance were honored in a recognition ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo on July 4.
The Philippine government honored the contingent composed of personnel from multiple government agencies for their help during their dispatch from April 1 to April 13 in Myanmar, following the magnitude 7.7 quake that hit the country in March.
A total of 89 personnel were awarded during the ceremony: 21 from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, 10 from the Bureau of Fire Protection, 10 from the Metro Manila Development Authority, 14 from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, 31 from the Department of Health and 3 from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD).
These personnel provided assistance in the search and rescue operations in Myanmar.
OCD officer-in-charge Assistant Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV, who gave the welcome remarks, said these agencies’ support reflects the nation’s “enduring spirit of solidarity not only within our own communities but with our neighbors in times of great need.”
“[It] deepens our cooperation among our government agencies, building unity and efficiency that are crucial when we respond to large scale disasters here and abroad,” he added.
Deepening diplomatic ties
Alejandro also highlighted that these missions also show the country’s commitment to deepen diplomatic ties.
“These missions remind us that our acts of compassion today build the foundation for support — strengthening our diplomatic ties and show the world the true spirit of Filipinos — compassionate, brave and always ready to help,” said Alejandro.
He added that it “increases our assurance that when the time arrives for the Philippines to confront similar challenges, we can be confident that the international community will be equally prepared to stand in solidarity with us as well.”
READ: Myanmar quake toll: 3,354 dead, 4,850 hurt
Guest of honor Defense Secretary and National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Chairperson Gilberto Teodoro Jr. shared the same sentiment.
“Our exposure in foreign deployments provides assurance that aid can also be expected in the event that these calamities or challenges happen to the Philippines,” he said.
He added that we have to prepare for the effects of climate change, including worse calamities.
“It is a reality that we cannot ignore,” said Teodoro. /das
