MANILA — For his outstanding service to the military profession, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Gen. Carlito G. Galvez, Jr. was awarded Bulacan’s “Gawad Dangal ng Lipi” in ceremonies in Malolos City Monday.
AFP public affairs office chief Col. Noel Detoyato said the award was given to recognize Bulacan’s exceptional sons and daughters.
Galvez is a native of Bustos town and was honored for loyalty, courage, and dedication in the military profession, manifesting the qualities of an outstanding public servant.
Bulacan Governor Wilhelmino M. Sy-Alvarado and Vice Governor Daniel R. Fernando and Chairman Herminio S. Esguerra of Dangal ng Bulacan Foundation, Inc. presented the plaque of recognition to the AFP chief.
The citation reads “buong tapang niyang sinuong ang mga hamon na nagtangkang sirain ang kapayapaan at integridad ng ating bansa at matagumpay niya itong nahadlangan (he bravely faced and triumphed over those who tried to undermine the country’s peace and integrity).”
The 50th AFP chief was also recognized for leading the First Scout Ranger Battalion against the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Sulu and Basilan when he was still the commander of Western Mindanao Command.
Among his feats was the successful liberation of Marawi; neutralization of ASG Leader Isnilon Hapilon and Maute brothers; and as Commander of 6th Infantry Division that pursued peace initiatives with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
Galvez was among 14 awardees recognized in their own fields of expertise, which include Public Service, Professional, Community Service, Entrepreneur, Education, Science and Technology, Arts and Culture, Trade and Industry, Health, Agriculture, and Sports.
“This is an important award as it recognizes and validates the hard work we, as public servants, dedicate to our nation. With this, I pledge to continue to serve our country with professionalism, honesty, and integrity with the goal of achieving the AFP’s mission towards a peaceful and secure Philippines,” he added. (Priam Nepomuceno/PNA)
