Manila: The Philippine Army (PA) announced the commendation of 10 soldiers who were part of the Philippine Inter-Agency Humanitarian Contingent (PIAHC) for their role in aiding the victims of the recent earthquake in Myanmar. These soldiers were recognized with the Meritorious Achievement Medal during a ceremony held at the Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

According to Philippines News Agency, Army chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido led the awarding ceremony, where the soldiers from the Army's 525th Combat Engineer Battalion, Combat Engineer Regiment, were honored. The awardees included 1st Lt. Alexis Nocos, 1st Lt. Joey Labiang, Staff Sgt. Ricky Ramirez, Staff Sgt. Jesus Tomas Jr., Sgt. John Rex Palaruan, Cpl. John Paul Kismundo, Cpl. Jundie Gutierez, Cpl. Ryan Paul Cabue±as, Cpl. Alihuddin Hamid, and Pfc. Elmar Encinas. These soldiers were part of the urban search and rescue team that was integral to the humanitarian mission.

During the ceremony, Lt. Gen. Galido also presented the Commanding General Philippine Army's Personal Coins to commemorate the team's contributions, emphasizing their courage, skill, and dedication to humanitarian service. He acknowledged their outstanding achievements and commended their courage, discipline, and humanity under challenging conditions.

Additionally, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) recognized its members who participated in the Myanmar rescue operations. PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo stated that the urban search and rescue team from the 505th Search and Rescue Group received the Bronze Cross Medal for their efforts. The flight crew of the 220th Airlift Wing, the Aeromedical Team from the Air Force General Hospital, and the 720th Special Operations Group were awarded the Silver Wing Medal for their contributions to equipment transfer, logistical support, medical assistance, and security.

Col. Castillo noted that PAF chief Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura praised the contingent's courage, professionalism, and compassion, highlighting their actions as a manifestation of the country's commitment to humanitarian causes and serving as a guiding example for the Philippine Air Force.