Fleet-Marine Troops Receives Recognition and Awards

CALARIAN, ZAMBOANGA CITY (Nov, 12, 2018) – Sailors and Marines received awards and recognition during the conduct of Flag Raising Ceremony on Nov 12, 2018 at Headquarters Naval Forces Western Mindanao.

It was a different Monday for the officers and men of Naval Forces Western Mindanao as they observe the Monday Flag Raising at Naval Station Romulo Espaldon, it was also the awarding of the Fleet-Marine personnel who accomplished exceptional feats in the accomplishment of their mission.

The Commander Naval Forces Western Mindanao, Rear Admiral Rene V Medina AFP with the Deputy Commander for Fleet Operations, CAPT Richard N Gonzaga PN(GSC) led the awarding of Bronze Cross Medal to the gallant sailors and marines of Philippine Marine Ready Force Sulu (PMRF-S), Marine Battalion Landing Team 3 (MBLT 3), Naval Special Operations Unit 6 (NAVSOU6) for the successful rescue of the Filipino kidnapped victim Jose Duterte last Nov 1. 

The award was received by each unit’s representative namely, Col Armel S TolatoPN(M)(MNSA), the Commanding Officer of PMRF Sulu; Maj Junnibert S Tubo PN(M) of MBLT 3; UO2 Christofert R Tiktik PN and UO2 CarmelitoPinote PN of NAVSOU6; SsgtRamil DL Diman PN(M), Sgt Gilbert G Hrenandez PN(M) of NISG-WM and CplJanrey N Camano PN(M) of MBLT 3.

Jose Duterte was rescued in the vicinity off BrgyKandayok, Panamao, Sulu in the hands of the Abu Sayyaf Group. He was abducted last March 3, 2017 at BrgySta Maria, Siocon, Zamboanga Del Norte.

In his message, Rear Adm Medina applauded the troops saying, “This morning’s activity is a significant event as you join me to distinctly recognize the extreme service and hardwork rendered by our comrades who successfully brought one of our kidnapped victims back to his family. I am very willing and happy to honor these Bronze Cross Medals to our brave MBLT3 who spearheaded the rescue operations of Kidnapped Victim Jose Duterte and also to other valiant operating elements and intelligence operatives for their successful conduct of focused military operations to liberate the said kidnapped victim.”

“Indeed that our gains and victories are of immense impact not only to NAVFORWEM but also the overall accomplishment of our Navy, that is why we should continue to strive for excellence and if possible, exceed the standards we’ve set for ourselves” the Commander NFWM added.

The giving of awards and recognition to troops is one of the military traditions in recognizing their exceptional deeds in the performance of their duty, their shared sacrifices and persistent efforts, and is also one way to boost the morale of the soldiers.

With this accomplishment, NFWM with the Fleet-Marine Team in Western Mindanao will continue to deepen its commitment and dedication in the performance of its mandated task for a peaceful, safe and secured Western Mindanao. (By JONG CADION with PR)