The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) honored Filipino peacekeepers serving abroad and sent off a new contingent of military observers for ASEAN assignments during a ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.
The event highlighted the AFP’s continued role in international peacekeeping, recognizing troops deployed with the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan, while marking the deployment of officers to the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT).
AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. led the ceremony during flag-raising rites at the General Headquarters Canopy Area, commending personnel for their performance in overseas missions.
Among those recognized was Major Mark Mabanglo of the Philippine Air Force, who received the Meritorious Achievement Medal for his composure and bravery during the attack and burning of a UN field station in Skardu on March 1, 2026.
Lt. Col. Edgar Bangod of the Philippine Air Force and Major Jaryl Villanueva of the Philippine Army were also awarded the CSAFP Commendation Medal for their service during the India-Pakistan conflict in May 2025.
The ceremony also marked the send-off of AFP officers assigned to the ASEAN Observer Team, led by Maj. Gen. Oliver Maquiling, who will be deployed to Cambodia and Thailand to support regional monitoring and cooperation efforts.
In his remarks, Brawner praised the professionalism of Filipino peacekeepers, saying their conduct reflects the discipline and credibility of the AFP on the international stage.
“Our personnel serving with the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan have shown professionalism, integrity, and steady leadership in complex environments,” Brawner said.
He also highlighted the role of the ASEAN Observer Team in promoting transparency and stability in the region.
“Your work may not always be visible, but it is essential. It strengthens confidence and reinforces cooperation among nations,” he added.
The AFP said its continued participation in peacekeeping and observer missions underscores the Philippines’ commitment to international peace, regional stability, and multilateral cooperation.