GENERAL Romeo S Brawner Jr., Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (CSAFP), paid tribute to the bravery of the wounded soldiers from the 32nd Infantry Battalion during an ambush in Basilan.
On January 23, 2025, General Brawner presented the Wounded Personnel Medal to these soldiers for their courage and heroism, during his visit to the Western Mindanao Command (WESMINCOM).
In recognition of their dedication and service, General Brawner commended the soldiers and assured them and their families that the military would provide full support, including access to the best medical care and assistance to aid in their recovery.
“Our soldiers are the backbone of our national defense, and the bravery demonstrated by these personnel exemplifies the true meaning of selflessness and sacrifice,”General Brawner said.“The AFP stands firmly behind them, and we will ensure they are provided with the necessary resources for a full recovery.”
Following the recognition, General Brawner visited the headquarters of the 101st Infantry Brigade accompanied by WESMINCOM Commander Lt. General Antonio Nafarrete and 11th Infantry Division Commander Maj. General Leonardo Peña, as part of the AFP’s ongoing efforts to strengthen security operations in Mindanao. General Brawner then received a detailed security briefing from Brigadier General Alvin Luzon, Commander of the 101st Infantry Brigade.
The AFP reiterated its commitment to advancing the normalization program in the region, aimed at addressing the root causes of conflict while ensuring that all actions remain within the bounds of law and peace mechanisms.