AFP chief General Carlito Galvez Jr. pins the Gold Cross Medal to 1Lt George N. Galzote during the flag-raising ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo on Monday, May 28. (PAO AFP)
Sixteen soldiers and two civilians were recognized on Monday for their significant contributions to the liberation of Marawi City.
Armed Forces chief Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr. handed out the awards to the soldiers and civilian personnel of the AFP during the flag raising ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo on Monday.
The recognition was for their combat or non-combat involvement in the liberation of Marawi City from the ISIS-linked terrorists.
The Gold Cross Medal, the third highest military award for combat, were awarded to Maj Ryedel Reynaldo C. Cabugon, 1Lt Brian B Palencia, PFC Enrique B. Macinas, and PFC Dondon M. Onsar (Philippine Army); Maj Michael G. Rabina, SSg Ronaldo A. Suarez, and SSg Glenn B. Grafa (Philippine Air Force); 1Lt George N. Galzote and 1Lt Jobert D. Jude (Philippine Marines).
The Silver Cross Medal was awarded to Lt Col Francis Julius B Buyucan from the Philippine Marines.
The Meritorious Achievement Medal was awarded to Col. Ferdinand L. Torres from the Philippine Airforce; Col. Consolito P. Yecla, Col. Alex S. Rillera, Lt. Col. Edgardo V. Talaroc Jr., and Maj Benjamin D. Cadiente Jr. from the Philippine Army.
Meanwhile, Col. Raul V. Bautista from the Philippine Army received the Command Plaque.
Civilian employees from the GHQ Emma B. Sicar and Kyle Kristoffer S. Salongcay received the Chief of Staff Commendation Medal.
“Nothing gives me more fulfillment than to join our soldiers in celebrating their moments of triumphs such as today. It brings me so much pride and joy to witness our men and women humbly accept the products of their selflessness, commitment, dedication and perseverance,” Galvez said in his speech.
The gun battle between the government forces and the Maute terrorists lasted five months. /ee
READ: Why it took 5 months to end Marawi siege