Brawner honors 12 soldiers who clashed with NPA rebels in Surigao
AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. confers honors to 12 Army soldiers in Surigao del Norte. PHOTO FROM ARMY’s 4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. has awarded 12 Army troopers for displaying extraordinary bravery in the fight against communist rebels in Surigao del Norte province, the Army’s 4th Infantry Division (4ID) said.
Brawner visited on Thursday, June 19, the Army’s 901st Infantry Brigade headquarters in Sta. Cruz, Placer, Surigao del Norte to confer to two officers and 10 enlisted personnel Gold Cross Medals, Silver Cross Medals and Military Merit Medals for their courageous stance during the successive encounters in Placer, Surigao del Norte.
The operation resulted in the neutralization of five New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas, among them one of Caraga region’s most wanted rebel leader.
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During his talk with the troops, Brawner commended the soldiers’ dedication and sacrifices, and urged them to remain steadfast in their mission to uphold peace and security in their area of responsibility.
Brawner said that with the AFP’s victory against the NPA, it can now concentrate on strengthening territorial integrity and responding effectively to external security challenges.
“Our focused military operations, supported by good governance and the cooperation of our people, have significantly weakened the NPA. As we near the end of this internal challenges, the AFP is now gradually shifting focus to territorial defense, ensuring we are prepared to protect our nation’s sovereignty amid growing external challenges,” Brawner explained.
Among those present during the awarding rites were Major General Michele Anayron Jr., 4ID commander, and Brigadier General Arsenio Sadural, commander of the 901st Infantry Brigade.
Brawner’s visit to Surigao del Norte aimed to boost the morale and welfare of troops in the frontline of the combat against the remaining forces of the NPA in the Caraga region. Ryan D. Rosauro, Inquirer Mindanao /mr
