(Eagle News) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday conferred the Order of Lapu-Lapu, Rank of Kalasag, to one of three army soldiers killed in a suicide bombing of a military camp in Indanan, Sulu last Friday.
The posthumous award to the late Cpl. Richard Macabadbad was given by President Duterte when he visited his wake at the Libingan ng mga Bayani Mortuary in Fort Bonifacio where he paid his last respects.
Duterte arrived at 11:20 p.m., Sunday, June 30, and offered his sincere condolences to the soldier’s family.
Corporal Macabadbad, 33, died with two other soldiers after a bomb went off at the 1st Brigade Combat Team in Barangay Kajatian, Indanan, Sulu.
The President personally handed over to the soldier’s mother, Arsenia P. Macababbad, the Kalasag Medal under the Order of Lapu-Lapu, recognizing the soldier’s dedication to service.
The award is given to officials and personnel of the government and private individuals who lost their lives as a direct result of their participation in an activity pursuant to a campaign or advocacy of the President.
Macababbad died in Indanan, Sulu, on June 28 along with Private First Class Recarte D. Alban, Jr and Private First Class Dominique C. Inte.
Three other civilians were also killed, including the two suspected attackers. Twenty-two were wounded during Friday’s incident, including 12 other soldiers.
The Islamic State (IS) was reported to have claimed responsibility for the suicide bombing at the Sulu military camp.
President Duterte stayed for an hour and also visited the other wakes in the Libingan ng mga Bayani. The remains of Corporal Macabadbad will be buried on July 12.
The Order of Lapu-Lapu was created in 2017 through Executive Oder No. 35. It is comprised of four medals namely the Magalong, Kalasag, Kampilan, and Kamagi.
“The Philippine Army is grateful for the Commander-in-Chief’s concern to our fallen comrades and their families. Our soldiers are aware of the risks that they have to face as as they fulfill their duty to serve and protect the people. This recognition serves as a reminder to each of us that our sacrifices matter to our people,” said Lt. Col. Ramon P. Zagala, Philippine Army Spokesperson.
