Capiz gov. is recipient of AFP's 'Bayanihan' Award

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 21): Capiz gov. is recipient of AFP's 'Bayanihan' Award

The Army's 3rd Infantry Division has announced that Gov. Victor A. Tanco of Capiz was among the seven civilians given the Armed Forces of the Philippines "Bayanihan" Award for his exemplary role in disaster relief operations in the aftermath of typhoon "Yolanda" last Nov. 8

Major Ray Tiongson, spokesperson of the 3rd ID based in Capiz, said Tanco was awarded in recognition of his leadership in spearheading comprehensive humanitarian assistance and disaster response activities involving multi-sectoral organizations under the United Nations, local government units and agencies, private organizations and the AFP after the destructive typhoon which affected 145,211 families or 690,270 persons in Capiz.

It was noted that his display of leadership in launching the wide-ranging intervention helped minimized or prevent loss of life, damage to properties, ameliorate the conditions of the affected individuals, most marginalized and exposed communities.

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council under Tanco's leadership served as the center for all the efforts.

This group immediately began rapid assessment of affected areas through the joint efforts of various sectors of the society, the different clusters of UN Organizations and the AFP.

The recognition of this indispensable partnership led to the collaborative planning and integration of resources which effectively implemented a focused humanitarian mission.

With the involvement of the 3rd Infantry Division in the preparation and initial stages of relief operations, Tanco embarked on close coordination among the international and local partner entities for the gradual restoration of normalcy in the affected areas.

“The AFP in Western Visayas acknowledges the efforts of the governor of Capiz, Hon. Victor Tanco, for displaying the true essence of 'Bayanihan' during the difficult times where a lot of people were in dire need of the necessary services and assistance," 3rd ID commander Major Gen. Aurelio Baladad said.

Meanwhile, among the notable accomplishments of this collaborative efforts were the following: Immediate distribution of 898.75 tons of relief items in the first three weeks of the disaster; 52 medical missions were conducted in cooperation with the Canadian Armed Forces and the 3rd Infantry Division medical teams which benefited 10,843 individuals; augmentation from Luzon-based electric companies to repair damaged power lines; and road clearing activities that were made in the different towns of Capiz.

Such effort significantly contributed to the AFP’s mission in “Winning the Peace” and the AFP Strategic Objectives to support developmental, environmental protection, disaster risk reduction and management and establishment of conditions for civil authorities to take responsibility for the safety and well-being of their constituents.

“Working together in the spirit of Bayanihan has been proven to generate excellent results regardless of what organization or race we belong. It is in this spirit where we Filipinos, belonging to one race and one nation, can rise again and live in a peaceful society,” Baladad added.

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