CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao -- The Army’s 6th Infantry Division has honored seven soldiers for gallantry in action in the campaign against the Dawlah Islamiyah Turaife Group (DITG) and IS-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in this province.
Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, led the awarding of medals held Monday at Camp Siongco Station Hospital in Barangay Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.
The recipients of the Wounded Personnel Medal (WPM) are SSgt. Joel Umoquit; PFC Vincent Ray Estifano; PFC Isaias Espanola; PFC Joel Del Cruz; PFC Kenneth Kris Ferrer; PFC Richard Ambio; and, PFC John Rey Paris.
Sobejana told the Philippine News Agency Tuesday that the awardees were part of government forces pursuing the BIFFs in the towns of Datu Salibo, Pagatin (Datu Saudi Ampatuan), Mamasapano and Shariff Aguak, commonly known as the SPMS box in Maguindanao.
“These troops fought valiantly during the major clash against the bandits in SPMS box,” said Sobejana, who is also the Joint Task Force Central commander.
“I am recognizing their exemplary courage in combat and make sure that they will receive the full assistance while recuperating,” he added.
The awardees also received cash rewards and gift packs. (PNA)
