SANTA ROSA, Laguna — Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr. honored 16 members of the Philippine National Police Special Action Force (SAF) during a ceremony held Monday at the unit’s headquarters.
The recognition rites highlighted exemplary performance by troopers from the elite unit of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
“The nature of your work requires competence, sound judgment, teamwork, and steady leadership,” Lagdameo said. “Every instance of exemplary performance strengthens and elevates the standards of the entire organization. It reinforces professionalism, builds public trust, and sets a clear example for others to follow.”
He urged the awardees to continue serving the public with integrity, discipline and professionalism.
With the assistance of Maj. Gen. Mark Pespes, Lagdameo conferred the Medalya ng Kagalingan (PNP Medal of Merit) on members of the 11th Special Action Battalion for a successful operation in Kibungan, Benguet, last month.
The mission resulted in the arrest of Dawnaesh Eban, listed among the top five most wanted individuals in the province, along with his accomplices.
The Palace official also awarded the Medalya ng Pagkilala (PNP Commendation Medal) to Police Capt. Joseph Pelobello of the 9th Special Action Battalion for academic distinction.
Pelobello graduated among the top five of his class in the International Police Exchange Program at the Abu Dhabi Police College in the United Arab Emirates in January.
Lagdameo also paid tribute to SAF personnel who were killed in the line of duty and those who sustained injuries during operations.
“As we move forward, may this recognition inspire everyone in the Special Action Force to continue striving for excellence guided by accountability, respect for the rule of law, and genuine commitment to public service,” he said.