• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Two officers and three enlisted personnel were given recognition by the Philippine Army in separate occasions on March 21 and 22 for their exceptional dedication to duty and unwavering courage in fulfilling their sworn duty.
Maj. Jestoni Labarosa and Capt. Dexter Dauan, both assigned at the 3rd Infantry Division in Jamindan, Capiz, were conferred the Distinguished Conduct Star and Gold Cross Medals, respectively, by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during the 128th Philippine Army anniversary held at Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City on March 22.
The ceremony recognized the exceptional dedication and significant contributions of Labarosa and Dauan to the Armed Forces of the Philippines, a statement from the Philippine Army said.
On March 21, the three enlisted personnel, who were injured in an encounter with remnants of the New People’s Army in Toboso, Negros Occidental, were also honored by the 303rd Infantry Brigade.
Brig. Gen. Ted Dumosmog, brigade commander, assisted by Lt. Col. Arnel Calaoagan, commanding officer of 79th Infantry Battalion, conferred the Wounded Personnel Medal on each of three soldiers during their visit to a hospital, where they are recuperating.
In a statement, the 79th IB said: “Despite their wounds, the soldiers displayed unwavering courage in fulfilling their sworn duty”.
“One of them even volunteered to immediately return to the battlefield and continue the operation to emphasize their unwavering commitment in ensuring the safety and security of communities in the province,” it added. | GPB
