Lorenzana honors 50 troopers who fought in Marawi

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana formally donned with new ranks 50 troopers who helped fought and liberated Marawi City from the Islamic State terrorists last year, in a military camp Friday in Jolo, Sulu.

Lorenza also recognized the troopers during the ceremony at Camp Teodulfo Bautista in Barangay Busbus, hours ahead of the visit of President Rodrigo Duterte who personally met and extended relief and cash assistance to 1,615 families of fire victims.

At least 48 of those promoted were from the 1st and 5th Scout Ranger Battalion, one from the 101st Army Brigade and one from the 12th Light Reaction Company.

Many of the soldiers deployed in Sulu were transferred to Marawi to help fight the Islamic State-inspired group.

After the five-month battle which led to the fall of Maute and Abu Sayyaf leaders, the soldiers were deployed back to Sulu to finish its mission in fighting the Abu Sayyaf group and rescuing the remaining 10 hostages.

Lorenzana recognized the Marawi troopers for their sacrifice in liberating the city from the control of the terror group.

The Defense chief also stressed Duterte's promise to take care of the families of those troopers who made the ultimate sacrifice during the battle and looked after wounded soldiers who are still recuperating.

“Let us continue to do our job as it is far from over. I, your Chief of Staff, and the other commanders will make sure to provide you all the support you need. If everything goes out well, we will soon be able to shift our efforts to more peaceful means such as programs that intends to develop our country,” Lorenzana said.