Girl, 13, awarded with NDRRMC Gawad Kalasag for saving sister

MANILA, Philippines - “Dahil mahal na mahal ko po ang kapatid ko (Because I love my sister very much).”

This was the reply of 13-year old Myrene Bruno Somejo when asked by The STAR why she risked her life to save her younger sister Neri Joy from drowning in waters off Cabugao, Ilocos Sur in 2013.

“I was nervous. I thought I would die,” Somejo said. 

Somejo was one of the awardees during the 16th Gawad Kalasag held yesterday in Camp Aguinaldo. The event recognized institutions and individuals who contributed to disaster risk reduction awareness and have shown extraordinary courage in times of emergencies.

What was supposed to be a simple picnic with her sister became a test of character – and a heroic moment for Somejo.

It all started when the two strolled along the beach in Barangay Daclapan morning of March 20, 2013 to bond with each other.

Neri Joy, then 7 years old, then joined her sister’s friends in a “rakit” or raft and went into deeper waters.

The friends’ laughter turned into screams as one of Somejo’s friends Kikay Naval slid off the raft, fell in the water, and accidentally dragged Neri Joy with her.

“The waters were so deep,” Somejo said.

“I wish I did not bring her (Neri Joy) along,” she added.

Despite the risk, Somejo wasted no time and swam towards Neri Joy and Kikay. Her swimming skills proved to be handy as she was able to save the two from drowning.

“Despite her young age, Myrene’s presence of mind and strong determination to save her sister and her friend demonstrated her heroic spirit,” the citation of Somejo’s Gawad Kalasag award read.  

“This unselfish act of being the ‘salva vida’ to Kikay and Neri Joy manifests her firm resolve and immeasurable love and concern for her sister in the face of risks to her life.”

Somejo’s father Rene said she is proud of her daughter’s achievement.

“I am thankful that my daughter was able to save lives. I thought my younger daughter would die,” he said.

Somejo said she would not hesitate to put herself in danger again to help those who are in need.

Proof of her courage and selflessness is her membership of the local water search and rescue team.

“I will continue to save lives so that no one will get drowned,” the Grade 7 pupil said.