ZAMBOANGA CITY -- The Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) has awarded medals to two wounded soldiers for gallantry in action during internal security operations.
Lt. Gen. Arnel dela Vega, Westmincom chief, on Monday led the awarding of medals to the two soldiers, who are confined at the Camp Navarro General Hospital in this city.
The awardees of Wounded Personnel Medal (WPM) were Private First Class (PFC) June Anthony Antipuesto of the Army’s 44th Infantry Battalion and PFC Niel Bendicto of the 13th Special Forces Company under the 6th Special Forces Battalion.
Col. Gerry Besana, Westmincom information officer, said Antipuesto was recognized for his gallantry in action during a firefight against some 30 New People’s Army rebels on May 11, this year, in Barangay Diampak, Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay.
Besana said the 44th Infantry Battalion troops were conducting focused military operations when they clashed against the NPA rebels.
Besana said Benedicto was awarded WPM for the bravery that he exhibited during a firefight against 30 Abu Sayyaf Group bandits led by Mundi Sawadjaan on Thursday, May 25, in Barangay Igasan, Patikul, Sulu.
The two wounded soldiers also received financial assistance during the awarding ceremony.
“The award is our way of acknowledging their dedication and selfless service to the people and the state,” dela Vega said.
“May this award motivate them to be more steadfast in fulfilling their mandate,” he added. (PNA)
