MANILA,
Philippines - A member of the Philippine Contingent to the Golan
Heights territory received a Peacekeeper of the Month Award at a United
Nations Office in Syria for saving the lives of 14 Austrians, the
Department of Foreign Affairs reported on Tuesday.
Technical Sergeant Herman Galiza of the Philippine Battalion was
awarded by the UN Disengagement Observer Force for his "exemplary
performance and devotion to duty rendered" as bus driver for the
Austrian and Croatian Contingents' rotation convoy from Camp Faouar to
Damascus International Airport last Nov. 28. Galiza managed to secure
and protect 14 Austrian passengers when the 25-vehicle convoy came under
heavy fire from anti-government forces while on its way to the airport.
“This award will reflect on how the 6th Philippine Contingent to
Golan Heights performed well in its mandated tasks and mission.
Likewise, this will boost the morale of the officers, men and women of
the Philippine Battalion,” Lt. Col. Nolie Anquillano, commanding officer
of the Phillippine Contingent said.
The sixth Philippine Contingent assumed peacekeeping in the Golan Heights last Nov. 19.
"Technical Sergeant Herman Galiza’s bravery and exemplary performance
in the line of duty are truly remarkable and worth noting. He
highlighted the gallantry and selflessness of each and every Filipino
soldier at home or anywhere in the world. He truly deserves the award,
commendation and recognition of the Community of Nations. The
Philippines is proud of you. Mabuhay po kayo and the rest of the
Philippine Contingent in the Golan,” Philippine Ambassador to Israel
Generoso D.G. Calonge said.
