Two Negrosanons from southern part of the province, were recognized early this month for their exemplary accomplishments. Jan Rey Artus was honored for finishing summa cum laude and valedictorian in the Philippine Military Academy this year. In the town of La Castellana, 1Lt. Lolinato To-ong Sr., was posthumously bestowed with the Medal of Valor for sacrificing his life in a battle against the MILF rebels in Maguindanao 21 years ago.
Artus is about to begin his life in the military, choosing to serve under the Philippine Navy, while To-ong ended his at the battlefield in Mindanao. Both men are considered heroes of their townmates and fellow officers.
It is with great pride for the province to have these two hoisting the banner of Negros Occidental in the turf of the smart and the brave. To be a summa cum laude and valedictorian in the PMA, Artus would have had spent countless of hours in training and studying to keep his mind and body fit. And the Medal of Valor, which To-ong was given posthumously, is awarded only to the bravest.
We share in the pride of the families of Artus and To-ong for raising men of courage, integrity and loyalty. Traits that we need not only to survive the challenges ahead but to conquer our fears and face the unknown. – NWI
