This is in response to the article, “AFP spokesperson gets service star medal” written by Nikko Dizon, with a report from Julie Alipala (News, 11/5/13).
We were clear in our statements, and in a press release distributed to media organizations on the same date, about the awarding, Nov. 4, that the ceremony was just one of many lined up on different occasions to ensure that the 2,473 soldiers who participated in the Zamboanga City crisis, whether in an administrative or combat capacity, will be cited for their contributions in the campaign.
In fact, prior to the ceremony attended by President Aquino, 532 of our soldiers had already been awarded. This shows that we are sincere in our intention to leave no one behind, and that no one is forgotten in our effort to highlight the heroism, bravery and sacrifices of our troops during the Zamboanga City crisis.
In line with this, it is in our ardent desire to show to the Filipino people how we take pride in our brave soldiers, particularly those who proved to the world that the Armed Forces of the Philippines could engage conflicts resolutely and exceptionally. However, this will not be entirely possible unless we all pay respect to both the facts and context of our undertakings.
—LT. COL. RAMON P. ZAGALA, PA, chief, Public Affairs Office, Armed Forces of the Philippines, paoafp@gmail.com