AFP chief urges troops to join search for outstanding Pinoys

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 5, 2021): AFP chief urges troops to join search for outstanding Pinoys (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of AFP

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff, Gen. Jose Faustino Jr., on Friday urged all members of the military to join the Metrobank Foundation Inc.’s (MBFI) Search for Outstanding Filipinos.

“As the Chief-of-Staff, I urge all the members of the AFP to join the Metrobank Foundation in the search for the recipients of this award for 2022. Let us take pride in our fellow soldiers and nominate who we think are most laudable,” Faustino said in a statement.

Since 1985, the Metrobank Foundation has honored a total of 685 Outstanding Filipinos -- 372 teachers, 163 soldiers, and 150 police officers.

Eligible to join in the search are soldiers, police officers, and teachers who have a minimum of 10 years of service with at least “very satisfactory” rating in the last decade.

Those set to retire must have at least three remaining years of service.

They must have exhibited good moral character and must not have been charged guilty in any administrative or criminal case. For the AFP, qualified commissioned officers (Captain to Colonel) must have completed a bachelor’s degree while enlisted personnel (Corporal to Chief Master Sergeant) must have completed at least a high school degree.

On Thursday, nominations for the prestigious award were officially launched at a virtual occasion led by MBFI president Aniceto Sobrepeña.

AFP deputy chief-of-staff, Vice Admiral Erick Kagaoan, attended the multi-sectorial activity with representatives from the Philippine National Police, Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, Philippine Savings Bank, Rotary Club of Makati Metro, and Rotary Club of New Manila East.

The MBFI’s Outstanding Filipino Award seeks to recognize four teachers, three soldiers, and three police officers for inspiring and influencing their peers and communities through service beyond and above the call of duty.

Each of them must have transformed a community with a lasting positive impact on people and to the country.

“Our esteemed institution is filled with outstanding men and women who are truly qualified to be nominated for the award. In times of peace or crisis, we have seen our brave soldiers stepping up to heed the call of duty and beyond in order to save lives, secure properties, and support in the delivery of basic needs,” Faustino said.

He added that he is grateful the AFP has partnered with stakeholders like the Metrobank Foundation who honor and respect the hard work of all teachers, soldiers, and police officers especially during these trying times brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Faustino also said that he is thankful for the foundation for bestowing due recognition that our personnel truly deserve.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158867