Duterte confers Order of Lapu-Lapu to wounded soldiers in Davao City

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte salutes to CAA Eduardo Matambonoy Jr. after he was awarded with the Order of Lapu-Lapu Kampilan Medal during the President’s visit at Camp Panacan Station Hospital in Davao City on November 18, 2017. Matambonoy was wounded in an encounter with members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Tagum City on November 17, 2017. Also in the photo is Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence Go. (Photo by Richard Madelo/Presidential Photo)

DAVAO CITY — President Rodrigo Duterte on Saturday, November 18, conferred the Order of Lapu-Lapu to recuperating soldiers in his visit to the Camp Panacan Station Hospital here for their honorable performance of duty.

The President also personally checked on the soldiers’ condition during his visit.

The Chief Executive pinned the Order of Lapu-Lapu medals to Private First Class (PFC) Ronald Pamonag and CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA) Eduardo Matambonoy, Jr.

The President also pinned the Wounded Personnel Medal on Matambonoy.

PFC Pamonag sustained injuries following the siege in Marawi while CAA Matambonoy Jr. sustained injuries in a firefight that ensued against members of the New People’s Army (NPA) at the vicinity of Magugpo East, Tagum City on November 17, 2017.

President Duterte holds in high esteem the Order of Lapu-Lapu for the honor that it symbolizes, adding that it cannot be awarded even to a President.

The Order of Lapu-Lapu recognizes invaluable or extraordinary service given to the government.

President Duterte also extended support and financial assistance to the two soldiers. He also gave each a smartphone and a gun.

The Commander-in-Chief then paid a visit to the rest of the soldiers who are also recovering in the said hospital.

He then extended support and encouragement to them and gave financial assistance as well.

Duterte also commended their efforts made in the line of duty.  (PND)