The Indonesia Embassy recently recognized the efforts of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in its rescue mission of three Indonesian fishermen held hostage by ASG in 2019 and 2020.
On behalf of the President of Indonesia, Joko Widodo, Indonesian ambassador in Manila Agus Widjojo presented the Medal of Peace to former Secretary of National Defense of the Philippines Delfin Lorenzana and former Chief of Staff of AFP, General (Ret.) Cirilito E. Sobejana on 3 August.
As many as 50 AFP soldiers who were involved in the rescue mission were also awarded the Medal of Dharma Defense by the Minister of Defense of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto.
The Medal of Peace is a highly-regarded token of service awarded by the President of Indonesia to any high-level individual, Indonesian or foreigner alike, who have greatly contributed in promoting peace, brotherhood, diplomacy and friendship.
The Medal of Dharma Defense, meanwhile, is given by the Ministry of Defense to foreign military, individual or individuals who are instrumental in enhancing the bilateral cooperation and conduct of activities related to defense and security.
“The award from the Government of Indonesia is a manifestation of the success of effective defense and security cooperation and the good relations between the two countries,” Ambassador Widjojo said in his remarks.
The conferment marks the first time the two medals have been awarded to foreign nationals. The award ceremony was attended by officials from the Bases Conversion and Development Authority, Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Defense, and AFP.