THE sailors who intercepted a Mongolian-registered bulk carrier loaded with P67 million worth of smuggled rice and have arrested 66 crew, including 15 foreigners, have been awarded Bronze Cross medals for their accomplishments.
Rear Admiral Rene Medina, Naval Forces Western Mindanao (Navforwem) commander, said the awardee-sailors are assigned with BRP-General Mariano Alvarez (PS-38); Multi-Purpose Attack Craft (BA485); and Naval Special Operations Unit-6 (NAVSOU6).
Medina said the award was received by each unit’s representatives namely: Lieutenant Commander Ted Cerezo Jr., BRP-General Mariano Alvarez; Lieutenant Commander Cesar Pangan Jr., Boat Attack Division; Lieutenant Junior Grade Jaymar Jayson PN; and, Seaman 1st Class Underwater Operator Rey Tano of the NAVSOU6.
Medina said the award given to the sailors merits their efficiency, loyalty and selfless devotion to duty in connection with the apprehension M/V Diamond 8 loaded with smuggled rice.
The M/V Diamond 8 was intercepted last April 14 near Olutanga Island in the province of Zamboanga Sibugay.
Medina spearheaded the awarding ceremony, which was held on Monday at the Romulo Espaldon Naval station that houses the Navforwem headquarters in Zamboanga City.