PRRD Confers Order of Lapu-Lapu on 5 Fallen Soldiers

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte rendered last salute to five soldiers of the 5th Infantry Division (5ID) who were killed-in-action (KIA). in a wake visit at Camp Melchor F. Dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela on November 21.

During the wake at Camp Melchor F. Dela Cruz In Gamu, Isabela on November 21, the Commander-in-Chief posthumously bestowed the Order of Lapu-Lapu with the Rank of Kalasag to : Cpl. Renhart Macad of Tabuk City, Kalinga; Cpl. Bryan Apalin of Bangued Abra; Cpl. John Raphy Francisco of City of Ilagan, Isabela; Cpl. Marlon Manuel of Cauayan City, Isabela; and PFC Jordan Labbutan of Rizal, Kalinga.

Maj. Jefferson Soriano, Division Public Affairs Office chief said the President met with the families of the fallen soldiers to hand over financial assistance.

In his message, the President recognized the sacrifice of the soldiers who perished in an encounter with the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Patikul, Sulu last November 16, 2018.

“Being the Commander-in-Chief, I would like to make my last salute sa aking sundalo. Mahal ko ang sundalo ko, mahal ko kayo. ‘Yan ang pagmamahal ng isang tatay,” the President said.

Meanwhile, PRRD also visited 1st Lt. Joshua Barrio and Pfc Gilbert Pablo, both members of the 54th Infantry Battalion soldiers who were wounded-in-action while fighting against the members of New Peoples Army in Isabela. He also awarded them the Order of Lapu-Lapu with the Rank of Kampilan and gave them financial assistance. (MDCT/MGE/PIA 2-Isabela)