A special tribute for the five rescuers who died while trying to save lives during the onslaught of super typhoon “Karding” was held on Friday, Sept. 30, at the Capitol Gymnasium in the City of Malolos, Bulacan.
The special tribute dubbed “Salamat at Paalam... Bayaning Tagapagligtas! Luksang Parangal para sa mga Yumaong Lingkod Bayan” was attended by the respective families of the victims and employees of the provincial government of Bulacan headed by Gov. Daniel R. Fernando and Vice Gov. Alexis C. Castro.
Rescuers from different provinces and cities in the country, as well as officials from national and regional agencies including the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Office of Civil Defense, National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, and other guests, were also present.
The Valenzuela City Rescue team, together with rescuers from other cities and towns in Luzon, gave a salute and offered candles to the fallen “Bulacan heroes” -- George E. Agustin from Iba O’ Este, Calumpit; Troy Justin P. Agustin from Sta. Rita, Guiguinto; Marby A. Bartolome from Bulihan, City of Malolos; Jerson L. Resurreccion from Catmon, Santa Maria; and Narciso Calayag, Jr. of City of Malolos
The tribute also gave the public a chance to see and utter their prayers, praises, and gratitude to the five heroes for the last time.
A Mass was held prior to the program, which was followed by an audio visual presentation (AVP), singing of the national anthem, viewing of the remains, and messages from Fernando.
Other individuals also gave their messages of support and assistance.
The fallen rescuers were also awarded with plaques of recognition for their heroic and selfless services.
The bereaved members of the victims’ families were given an opportunity to share their messages of gratitude and appreciation.
According to their co-workers in the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), the five responders were seasoned and well-trained rescuers. They had done a number of rescue operations in and outside the province.