Marcos pins medals on troops wounded in Lanao del Sur clash

President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. on Monday awarded medals to troops who were wounded in a series of firefights in Lanao del Sur last month.

Accompanied by Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr., and Philippine Army Chief Lieutenant General Roy Galido, Marcos personally pinned gold cross medals on two wounded soldiers at the Philippine Army General Hospital in recognition of their gallantry in action.

Further, Marcos awarded Military Merit Medals (MMM) with Bronze Spearhead Device to two other soldiers for their crucial role in the military operation against the Dawlah Islamiya-Maute Group.

Aside from the decorations, Marcos also gave financial assistance to the wounded troops.

In his talk with the soldiers, Marcos recognized their courage and unwavering dedication when it comes to protecting the public and defending the nation against elements that threaten the country's security. 

The President also ensured that his administration would continue to implement programs that will provide assistance to battle casualties and promote the welfare of the personnel of the Philippine military and their families.

Marcos further assured troops that his office is acting on the request of the AGH and the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital (CESH) for additional equipment which will allow them to better serve the troops. 

To recall, nine alleged members of the Dawlah Islamiyah Group died in a clash with government troops in Piagapo.

Among those killed was Saumay Saiden - also known as Ustadz Omar, Abu Omar, and Saumay - one of four primary suspects allegedly involved in the Mindanao State University (MSU) bombing in December 2023.

Also reported killed was Abdul Hadi - also known as Hodi Imam and Abday'N - who allegedly assembled the improvised explosive device used in the MSU bombing. — DVM, GMA Integrated News