HEEDING CALL OF DUTY: 53IB Recognizes Wounded-in-Action CAFGUs in Zamboanga del Sur
The Philippine Army’s 53rd Infantry “MATAPAT” Battalion (53IB) bestowed Certificates of Recognition to two CAFGU personnel during the Flag Raising Ceremony at 53IB Headquarters, Camp Major Sabido, Guipos, Zamboanga del Sur on April 12, 2021.
The CAFGU personnel recipients of the certificate are CAA Pedro Maloloy-on Jr. and CAA Rustom Aclo, who were wounded during a firefight with lawless armed men in Barangay Talanusa, Margosatubig, Zamboanga del Sur on April 4, 2021.
Maloloy-on and Acio were on duty as caretakers of 53IB Delta Company/DENR security outpost in Barangay Talanusa when an undetermined number of lawless armed men engaged in a firefight. The firefight lasted for about ten minutes that left Maloloy-on and Acio with gunshot wounds. After the incident, the troops were recovered an M1 Carbine Rifle while the enemy withdrew toward Dumanguilas Bay.
Authorities have identified the lawless armed men as members of the Manguda Group, a criminal group operating in the areas of Lapuyan and Margosatubig led by Erhamuddin Manguda a.k.a. “Er-er.”
The Manguda Group was previously led by Mansur Manguda, who was killed by Joint Law Enforcement Operations of the PNP and AFP.
Maloloy-on and Acio were recognized “for their gallantry and outstanding performance as members of the Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) Delta Company, 53rd (MATAPAT) Battalion, 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army that contributed to the accomplishment of the unit’s mission,” the citation reads.
“Thank you for giving this award with all my heart,” Maloloy-on said.
“We recognize the heroism and sacrifices of our CAFGUs. We know that our CAFGUs especially those assigned in far-flung areas are dedicated in fulfilling their duties for peace and security,” 53IB Commanding Officer Jo-ar Herrera said.
