Samar lady solon awards deserving servicemen, hails them for heroism

By NINFA B. QUIRANTE (PIA Samar)
July 18, 2008

CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar  –  Lady Representative Sharee Ann Tan of the 2nd District of Samar served as guest of honor and speaker during the awarding of one officer and four enlisted personnel of the 8th Infantry Division (ID) on Monday July 14, 2008.

Congresswoman Tan and 8th ID Commanding General Arthur Tabaquero awarded the deserving officer and enlisted men.

Captain Alfie Ferrer, Sgt. Mario Alfie Bagtong, Cpl. Edwin Buton, Pfc. Arlene Rivera and Pfc. Vicenter Ramirez were given the Anti-Dissidents Campaign Medal and Ribbon for their exemplary and invaluable services to Samar.

The achievement of the officer and enlisted personnel is hoped to give inspiration not only to their fellow soldiers but also to the Samarnons who benefit from the soldiers services.

In her message, Congresswoman Tan applauded the 8th Infantry Division for the strong commitment and dedication as an organization whose strength and resources are committed in ensuring peace and the safety of Samarnons.

“It has become public knowledge that you do not only protect lives and safeguard properties; you do not only take up arms to fight the perceived enemies of the state, but you have also ventured into education to fight illiteracy,” Tan was quoted saying.

Soldiers were also known to extend health programs, agriculture and even tree planting activities, these the lady lawmaker added.

Congresswoman Tan also mentioned that the soldiers are into engineering, building roads and bridges.

“You also venture into community organization to win friends and revise negative impressions. Most of you, who are here upholding the standard of the Army are not even Samarnons. But you have pledged to shed your blood and lay down your lives for us, the people of Samar,” the lady solon added.

Meanwhile, BGen. Tabaquero expressed his thanks to Hon. Tan for the inspiration.