In recognition of their actions and reprovisioning efforts, President Marcos has conferred the Order of Lapu-Lapu on 80 soldiers who were involved in the recent clash with the China Coast Guard in the West Philippine Sea on June 17.

In a speech during his visit to the troops in Camp General Artemio Ricarte in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, the President lauded the troops for not escalating the tension despite the heat of the moment when they were conducting the rotation and resupply (RORE) mission to Ayungin Shoal.

"So, as we award these medals, we remember that on June 17th, we made a conscious and deliberate choice to remain in the path of peace," he said on Sunday, June 23.

"You have stood up and upheld the fundamental principles that bind all of us Filipinos. A mutual respect for life, for dignity, and for community," he added.

According to Marcos, he has never been prouder of the entire Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) as he was following the incident.

The President specifically lauded Seaman First Class Underwater Operator Jeffrey Facundo, who lost his thumb in the incident.

Marcos awarded Facundo the Kampilan Medal which is given to those who are seriously wounded or injured as a direct result of their participation in an activity pursuant to the President's campaign or advocacy.

The other 79 soldiers received the Kamagi Medal, which is given to those who actively participated in and made substantial contributions to an activity associated with a campaign or advocacy of the President.

"I salute the 80 officers and troops who sailed the waters and exercised the greatest restraint amidst intense provocation," he said.

"You demonstrated to the world that the Filipino spirit is one that is brave, determined, and yet is compassionate,"  he added.

With this, President Marcos said the government would continue to provide the soldiers with their needs and look after their and their families' welfare.

The Order of Lapu-Lapu, created in 2017, is awarded to government officials and personnel, as well as to private individuals, in recognition of invaluable or extraordinary service concerning the President's campaign or advocacy.