Pinoy peacekeeper cited for bravery

MANILA, Philippines - For his bravery when he secured and kept 14 Austrian passengers out of danger in Syria last November, a Filipino peacekeeper received the Peacekeeper of the Month Award. 

Tech. Sgt. Herman Galiza, a member of the 6th Philippine contingent to Golan Heights, received the award during the command briefing at the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) headquarters at Camp Fauoar in Syria last Jan. 9.

Lt. Col. Nolie Anquillano, commanding officer of the Philippine contingent, said UNDOF chief Maj. Gen. Iqbal Singh Singha conferred the award on Galiza, bus driver for the Austrian and Croatian contingents rotation convoy from Camp Faouar to Damascus International Airport last Nov. 28.

The convoy, consisting of 25 vehicles, came under heavy fire by anti-government forces while on its way to the airport. Galiza accelerated his vehicle to secure and keep his 14 Austrian passengers safe and out of danger.

The Peacekeeper of the Month Award is granted to deserving soldiers in UNDOF for exemplary performance of duty and outstanding contribution to peacekeeping. 

“This award will reflect on how the 6th Philippine Contingent to Golan Heights performed well in its mandated tasks and mission. Likewise, this will boost the morale of the officers, men and women of the Philippine battalion,” Anquillano said.

Philippine ambassador to Israel Generoso Calonge commended Galiza’s bravery and exemplary performance.