Solon's relief efforts recognized

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu Sixth District Representative Luis Gabriel Quisumbing was accorded with a Gawad sa Kaunlaran award by the Central Command for his support in the efforts of helping super typhoon Yolanda victims.

Quisumbing, who is the acting commander of 82nd Marine Battalion Reserve, was among the three that were given the awards last week in front of the Lapu-Lapu monument at the Central Command.

The second to be awarded was Deputy Ombudsman for the Visayas Pelagio Apostol who is the acting deputy commander 8th Marine Brigade Reserve but because he was not available, the award was received by 2nd Lieutenant Cresencio Ariar on his behalf, and third was Major Tito Panara, the acting chief of staff of the 8th Marine Brigade Reserve.

The award was pinned by Brigadier General Romeo Labrador, deputy commander for operations of Central Command, during a flag retreat ceremony.

"It is of great pride and humility to have this merit recognizing our efforts during the difficult times in helping the victims of Yolanda and the rehabilitation efforts after," Quisumbing said in his speech.

He also said he was proud to be a member of the reservist and challenged everyone to continue to help and sacrifice for fellow "Filipinos who are worth dying for."

Quisumbing added that about 48 reservists camped in the northern Cebu for rehabilitation efforts. The same reservists led by Quisumbing stayed for 15 days also after the earthquake in Bohol and helped in the transport, hauling, distribution and building of temporary shelters.

He was also among those who helped during the typhoon Sendong in Cagayan De Oro City a few years back and during the siege in Zamboanga and the collision of ships in Cebu last year.  (FREEMAN)