Photo courtesy of PRO-12
Four high school students in Maasim, Sarangani, were recognized for helping rescue classmates and teachers during the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck on June 8.
The Police Regional Office in Soccsksargen presented the awards on Monday to students of Colon National High School in Barangay Colon.
Grade 11 students Jimmy Libona III, Lance Dave Tampos and Chauncey Carl Pable, along with Grade 12 student Ashraf Fernandez, were cited for assisting people trapped inside the school gymnasium.
Police said the students entered the damaged area despite the risks and helped bring teachers and fellow students to safety.
The recognition was organized by personnel of the 1st Platoon, 1204th Maneuver Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion-Soccsksargen.
Libona, Tampos and Pable received framed certificates, official RMFB-12 berets and cash incentives during the ceremony.
Fernandez was unable to attend because of changes in the school schedule and will receive his award separately.
PRO-12 Regional Director Brig. Gen. Alan Manibog said the students’ actions showed that courage and public service are not defined by age and could inspire others to help during emergencies.