Firefighters in Fort Bonifacio blast feted

Firemen keep a safe distance after earlier explosions at the burnt Army Support Command depot inside Fort Bonifacio wounded some of their colleagues. ARNOLD ALMACEN

MANILA, Philippines –   Firefighters, who sustained injuries after responding to the Fort Bonifacio blast on May 7, finally got their dues on Monday.

Major General Hernando Iriberri, Philippine Army Chief, awarded the 28 firefighters at Fort Bonifacio Monday morning, handing out 11 Military Merit Medals and 17 Military Civic Action Medal.

Iriberri also handed out plaques for Taguig City Fire Station, Pasay City Fire Station, Makati City Fire Station, Valenzuela Fire Station, Pasig Brotherhood Fil-Chinese Fire Volunteers, Old Parañaque Fire Volunteer Brigade Incorporated, and Southern Police District.

“I was most seriously concerned,” Iriberri said. “There were so many lives on the line.”

Iriberri added that he and the Army look forward to their partnership with the fire officers and fire volunteers who responded to the situation.

“You have responded not only to prove your skills but also help the Philippine Army,” Iriberri said. “You have given honor to not only your respective institutions but also to the civil service.”