DISTINGUISHED TROOPERS| 53IB Accords Award for Troops’ Meritorius Achievement

The Philippine Army’s 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion (53IB) bestowed the Military Merit Medal for the troops’ meritorious achievements during the flag raising ceremony held in commemoration of the country’s 123rd Independence Day yesterday June 12.

The Military Merit Medal (MMM) was awarded to two Officers and 13 Enlisted Personnel of 53IB for their contributions to Development Support and Security Operations (DSSO) of the Western Mindanao Command (WESMINCOM) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) as a whole.

Staff Sergeant Dexter Fadrilan, a recipient of the said award, said this was the first time —in his 17 years of service— that a ceremony was held to accord him such an award.Meanwhile, 53IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera told the awardees that the award was well deserved.

“This award is a symbol of thanks for your sacrifices and service to this Battalion and the people we serve. Note that the higher headquarters do not let your meritorious efforts go unnoticed,” said Lt. Col. Herrera.

This awarding ceremony is part of the 53IB’s drive to pursue transformation to become a world class Army that is a source of national pride by 2028 in line with the Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR).