GMA confers 2006 TOPS awards

President Arroyo conferred yesterday the Ten Outstanding Philippine Soldiers (TOPS) awards for this year.

The awardees were cited for their exemplary career achievements, gallantry, operational efficiency and general contributions to the Armed Forces.

Mrs. Arroyo did not deliver a speech during the ceremonies.

Heading the list of awardees in the commissioned officers category were Col. Dacio-Teody Udal, Medical Administrative Corps and Requirements Branch chief at the Office of the Surgeon General of the AFP; Lt. Col. Arnulfo Marcos, Army; Maj. Hernanie Songano, Navy-Marines; and Capt. Giemel Espino, Air Force.

In the enlisted personnel category, the awardees were Senior Master Sergeant Fidel Alegre Jr.; M/Sgt. Guillermo Francisco; Radar Man 1 Freddie Asence; Sgt. Rudy Espuelas, PA; T/Sgt. Larry Dacuray; and Staff Sgt. Irwin Parolma, PAF. — Aurea Calica