The 2005 Search for The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers (TOPS)

PGMA Cites Gains Against Terrorism, Honors Outstanding Men of the AFP
January 31, 2006

President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo once again cited inroads made by the Armed Forces of the Philippines in the fight against terrorism, highlighting the important role played by the country in helping safeguard the region against terrorist attacks. She particularly lauded the efforts of our men and women in uniform who have maintained vigil and are constantly on the alert for possible break-out of terrorism related violence.

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (front, center) honored exemplary career achievements of both officers and enlisted personnel from each of the AFPs major service branches through the Metrobank Foundation Search for The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers awarding ceremonies held recently at the Malacañan.

In photo are: Back L-R: Mr. Aniceto M. Sobrepeña, Vice Admiral Ariston V. De Los Reyes, Defense Secretary Avelino J. Cruz, Cong. Arthur D. Defensor,. Dr. Placido L. Mapa, Jr., Atty. Roy Joseph M. Rafols

Front L-R: MSgt. Guillermo P. Francisco, PA; SMS Fidel A. Alegre, Jr., PA; Capt. Giemel O. Espino, PAF; Lt. Col. Arnulfo J. Marcos, PA; Sgt. Rudy D. Espuelas, PN (M); SSgt. Irwin P. Parolma, PAF; Maj. Hernanie S. Songano, PN (M); TSgt. Larry A. Dacuray, PAF: RD1 Freddie E. Asence, PN; Col. Dacio-Teody R. Udal, (Technical Services)

The President’s message served as a fitting backdrop to the awarding ceremonies of the Search for The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers, an annual recognition program sponsored by the Metrobank Foundation and the Rotary Club of Makati Metro. The award honors exemplary career achievements of both officers and enlisted personnel from each of the AFPs major service branches.

The roster of winners of last year’s Search are, from the Philippine Navy;

• Maj. Hernanie S. Songano

• RD1 Freddie E. Asence

• Sgt. Rudy D. Espuelas

from the Technical Services;

• Col. Dacio Teody Udal

from the Philippine Army;

• Lieutenant Colonel Arnulfo J. Marcos

• Senior Master Sergeant Fidel A. Alegre, Jr.

• Master Sergeant Guillermo P. Francisco

and from the Philippine Air Force

• Captain Giemel O. Espino

• Staff Sergeant Irwin P. Parolma

• Technical Sergeant Larry A. Dacuray

A distinguished panel of judges led by Hon. Arthur Defensor, representative of the 3rd District Iloilo and Chair of the House Committee on Good Governance with Hon. Dante O. Tinga, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, as Vice-Chair, with Prof. Nieves R. Confesor, Chairperson of the GRP Negotiating Panel for Talk with CPP, NPA, NDF; Dr. Lydia B. Echauz, President of the Far Eastern University Mr. Benjamin F. Abadiano, 2004 Ramon Magsaysay Awardee for Emergent Leadership and Executive Coordinator of the Assisi Development Foundation Ms. Belinda Olivares - Cunanan, Columnist, Philippine Daily Inquirer and Radio Host, DZRH rigorously went through the documentary credentials and interviewed each of the finalists nominated in last year’s search.

go to program: The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers (TOPS)

go to 2006 News and Announcements Archive