113 soldiers in Visayas honored

From the Philippine News Agency (May 10, 2024): 113 soldiers in Visayas honored (By John Rey Saavedra)

COMBAT MEDAL. Visayas Command commander Lt. Gen. Fernando Reyeg (left) pins the Gold Cross Medal on Friday (May 10, 2024) to a soldier who was wounded in an encounter at the Barangay San Gabriel, Borongan City, Eastern Samar on Jan. 6, 2024, which resulted in the neutralization of Martin Coloma alias Amos/Maki/Seloy, the secretary of Sub-regional Committee Sesame of the New People's Army. The wounded soldier was among the 113 members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in Visayas honored for their exemplary combat actions and peace-building initiatives.(Photo contributed by the Viscom PIO)

CEBU CITY – The Visayas Command (Viscom) has awarded medals to 113 soldiers for their exemplary actions during combat and peace-building initiatives, an Army official said on Friday.

Lt. Gen. Fernando Reyeg, commander of Viscom, said 28 officers and 85 enlisted personnel were given Gold Cross Medals, one conferred to the awardee who is still confined to a hospital due to a combat wound, while 14 were given Silver Cross Medals for their combat and intelligence operations.

Reyeg also pinned the Gawad sa Kaunlaran Medals to 93 personnel, including Brig. Gen. Efren Morados, commander of the 803rd Infantry Brigade, and Brig. Gen. Perfecto Peñaredondo, acting deputy commander of the 8th Infantry Division, for their successful civil-military peace-building initiatives.

Six other personnel received the Meritorious Achievement Medal for their significant efforts in enhancing the capability and readiness of the Combat Support and Combat Service Support units of Joint Task Force Storm.

“The soldiers, hailing from various units within Viscom, have demonstrated outstanding bravery and professionalism in the face of adversity, distinguishing themselves through their combat feats and their tireless efforts to foster peace and stability within our local communities,” Reyeg said in a statement.

He said the awards reflect Viscom’s firm stand on the importance of recognizing not only military achievements but also the vital role played by the Armed Forces in the Visayas in promoting peace and harmony among diverse populations.

The Viscom chief urged the soldiers to keep the momentum and build upon the gains in their campaign against insurgency.

“Every action contributes to our overarching goal of peace and stability in the entire Visayas region. As such, I urge you to remain steadfast in your commitment, and let us press on our unwavering resolve in ending the local communist armed conflict,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1224477