THE 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion (IB) has awarded medals to 14 “Matapat” troops for their invaluable service and dedication to duty to the Philippine Army, in particular, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines as a whole.

Lieutenant Colonel Jo-ar Herrera, 53IB commander, led the awarding of Military Merit Medals (MMM) to awardees that highlighted the flag-raising ceremony Monday, September 20.

Herrera said recipients of the MMM are the following: Technical Sergeant Julius D. Obido; Staff Sergeant Joselito A. Barcoma; Sergeant Sisinio C. Mapano; Sergeant Alcher G. Asuncion; Corporal Joel V. Estribor; Corporal Rudy B. Reutotar; Corporal Lenard L. Dafon; Corporal Rindy T. Espiritu; Corporal Felipe Y. Publico, Jr.; Private First Class Joven R. Batucan; Private First Class Elmer A. Tagapan; Private First Class Jessie G. Cartimbac; Private Clensan H. Padilla; and Private Juharie L. Cadir.

Herrera encouraged MMM recipients to continue their respective tasks in serving the Filipino people.

The MMM is awarded for heroic achievement or meritorious service during, or in support of military action against an enemy.

The 53IB is one of the operating units of the 102nd Infantry Brigade under the 1st Infantry Division, the premier unit of the Philippine Army.

The 53IB is based at Camp Major David Sabido in Guipos, Zamboanga del Sur. (SunStar Zamboanga)