Eighty personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) who joined the dangerous resupply mission in Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal last June 17 were awarded with medals by President Marcos Jr. on Sunday, June 23, according to the military.
Col. Xerxes Trinidad, chief of AFP public affairs office, said Marcos visited the AFP Western Command headquarters at Camp General Artemio Ricarte in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan to check on the well-being of the troops who attempted to bring food and other provisions to the sailors and marines manning the BRP Sierra Madre outpost last week but were violently obstructed by the China Coast Guard (CCG).
Marcos was accompanied by Department of National Defense (DND) Sec. Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr.
“The President's visit highlighted the government's recognition of the soldiers' bravery and dedication, as he awarded Seaman First Class Underwater Operator Jeffrey Facundo the Order of Lapu-Lapu Rank of Kampilan and 79 others who joined the mission with the Order of Lapu-Lapu Rank of Kamagi,” Trinidad said.
The Kampilan Medal honors those seriously wounded or suffering property loss due to their involvement in the President's campaigns, while the Kamagi Medal recognizes significant active participation in these efforts.
It can be recalled that Facundo lost his right thumb when the boat that he was riding was suddenly rammed at a high speed by a rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) of the CCG.
According to Trinidad, Marcos rendered a salute to the AFP officers and troops who “exercised the greatest restraint amidst intense provocation” by Chinese maritime forces.
“President Marcos Jr. concluded his visit by reaffirming his commitment to the military, and urging them to remain steadfast in performing their duty,” Trinidad added.