• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Fourteen soldiers of the Philippine Army and an Aspin tracking dog named “Itum” were honored and conferred with medals by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Visayas Command in connection with the successful series of encounters with New People’s Army remnants in southern Negros.
Lt. Gen. Fernando Reyeg, AFP Visayas Command chief, led the conferment of Military Working Dog Achievement Medal on “Itum” Medal for exemplary performance of duty during the conduct of pursuit operation that led to the discovery of an NPA cadaver and the recovery of a caliber .45 pistol, and other war materials in Barangay Gatuslao, Candoni on Nov. 21.
The deployment of a tracker dog further exemplified the tactical ingenuity of the operating troops, Reyeg said.
Six other rebels died in the encounter, which also led to the recovery of eight assault rifles.
“We not only honor our brave soldiers but also recognize the invaluable contributions of our K9 partners. Itum’s exceptional performance exemplifies the critical role that our K9 partners play in ensuring mission success,” Reyeg said in his speech during the awarding rites held at 47IB headquarters in Mabinay, Negros Oriental.
Of the 14 members of the 15th and 47th Infantry Battalions, four received Gold Cross Medals, four others were conferred with Silver Cross Medals, and six more got Military Merit Medals.
“In Team Viscom, it is imperative to recognize and honor every member’s untiring effort and selfless sacrifice to ensure that peace will reign, and the democratic way of life is sustained throughout the Visayas region,” Reyeg said. | GB
