MANILA, Philippines - After 112 days of performing peacekeeping operations, the members of the 7th Philippine Contingent to the Golan Heights (PCGH) received the prestigious United Nations Service Medal during the Medal Parade held on March 22 at Camp Ziouani. The awarding of the medals was led by Philippine Ambassador to Israel Generoso D.G. Calonge and United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) Commander Lieutenant General Iqbal Singh Singha.
LTC Ted B. Dumosmog INF (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer of the 7th PCGH and the first recipient of the medal in the group, congratulated his fellow peacekeepers, saying that receiving the award was one of the most significant events in a peacekeeper’s life as it also signified the honorable recognition by the international community of the vital contribution of the Philippine Contingent in maintaining peace in the Golan Heights.
Singha also commended the performance of the Filipino peacekeepers and said that they have done exceedingly well in their mission. In his speech, he noted how the troops came well-prepared and continued to make themselves physically and mentally disposed for their mission. He also praised them for taking proactive steps in intensifying efforts to achieve safety and security in their respective positions.
Calonge, meanwhile, encouraged the Filipino peacekeepers to carry on their good work in the mission and to continue performing their duties with honor and dedication. He congratulated them for their hard work and for doing well in representing the Philippines in the peace keeping operations in the Golan Heights.
The Philippines has been sending troops to UNDOF since 2009 when the Polish Contingent turned over its command to the country. With the 332 troops currently serving in UNDOF, the Philippines remains the second biggest troop contributor to the peacekeeping mission.