74 Panay soldiers awarded for gallantry in combat

By Jennifer P. Rendon

Seventy-four soldiers from two Philippine Army units in Panay Island received merit medals for their gallantry during an awarding ceremony at the 301st Infantry Brigade headquarters at Camp Hernandez in Dingle, Iloilo, on August 16.

Lieutenant General Fernand Reyeg, commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Visayas Command, bestowed the Gold Cross Medal on 19 soldiers from the 12th Infantry Battalion. Meanwhile, 55 soldiers from the 82nd Infantry Battalion received the Silver Cross Medal.

The soldiers were recognized for their bravery in combat operations against members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Panay.

Among the 74 recipients, 20 are officers, while 54 are enlisted personnel.

Brigadier General Michael Samson, commander of the 301st Infantry Brigade, said the awardees played a crucial role in a series of armed encounters in Iloilo province, particularly in Lambunao, Calinog, and Leon, which led to the neutralization of key rebel personalities.

The neutralized NPA members were identified as Benjamin Cortel, alias Mamang/Amor, the political officer of the Regional Headquarters (RHQ), Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay; Aurelio Berjes Bosque, alias Burnok/Bayjan/Sarco/Boy, an RHQ Executive Committee member; Jenalyn Silverio, alias Darlyn/Kaykay/Akay/Porang, the supply officer of RHQ, KR-Panay; and three others.

Samson commended the 12th and 82nd Infantry Battalions, along with their supporting units, for their efforts in safeguarding the people of Panay and Guimaras Islands against the CTGs.

“We express our gratitude and admiration for all our brave troops for their gallant and heroic actions that thwarted the extortion and other terror activities of the CPP-NPA terrorists. May these awards inspire us to double our efforts and work tirelessly toward achieving a just and lasting peace,” Samson said.

Meanwhile, Reyeg acknowledged the unwavering dedication shown by the 12th and 82nd Infantry Battalions in locating and engaging members of the RHQ and Central Front of Komiteng Rehiyon–Panay.

“The recent success in neutralizing key CTG (rebel) leaders is a testament to your dedication. Your actions have brought us closer to lasting peace and security in Panay,” he said.

Reyeg added that the medals awarded to the gallant soldiers reflect their strength, sacrifice, and relentless commitment, which have weakened the enemy and ensured the safety of Filipinos.