THE Joint Task Force Central has honored seven soldiers for gallantry in action against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and the Dawlah Islamiyah Turaife Group (DITG) in the province of Maguindanao.
Conferred with the Wounded Personnel Medal (WPM) were the following: Staff Sergeant Joel Umoquit, Private First Class (PFC) Vincent Ray Estifano, PFC Isaias Espanola, PFC Joel Dela Cruz, PFC Kenneth Kris Ferrer, PFC Richard Ambio, and PFC John Rey Paris.
They figured in series of clashes against the BIFF and DITG members in the areas of Salibo, Pagatin, Mamasapano and Shariff Aguak, which are also known as the SPMS box, in Maguindanao.
Major General Cirilito Sobejana, Joint Task Force Central commander, led the awarding of medals when he visited them on Monday at Camp Siongco Station Hospital in Maguindanao.
The seven awardee-soldiers have also received cash reward and gift pack for their faithful service from Sobejana, who is also the Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander.
“I will honor all soldiers who performed very well in their assigned mission,” Sobejana said.
“I am recognizing their exemplary courage in combat and make sure that they will receive the full assistance while recuperating,” Sobejana added.
Lieutenant General Arnel Dela Vega, Westmincom chief, has lauded the battle casualties for their bravery.
“I give my highest commendations to them. Truly, they are our modern heroes, they are willing to die for our country and for the people,” Dela Vega said. (Bong Garcia/SunStar Philippines)