Slain lieutenant gets Medal of Valor

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos awarded the highest military medal for combat to a deceased Army officer who was killed 15 years ago in a gunbattle with approximately 150 Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) militants in Basilan.

First Lt. Dhell Jhun Evangelista became the 43rd recipient of the award, which was received by his brother, Denver Evangelista, during the 89th anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines on Friday.

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“His exemplary leadership and courage resulted in the neutralization of ten ASG militants, the recovery of 16 high-powered firearms, and the successful rescue of two wounded Marines,” the AFP said.

As a Medal of Valor awardee, the recipients and/or their dependents receive a lifetime monthly gratuity of P125,000; employment in government agencies; priority in the acquisition and/or lease of public lands; exception from payment of tuition and matriculation fees; admission to the Cadet Corps, Officer Candidate Courses and other AFP sources of commission; and discounts, among others. —Frances Mangosing