2016 The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers (TOPS)

Aspire. Inspire. Stand Out. h

Building

It is not enough to insist that change is necessary; one must aspire to be the change that one seeks and create opportunities to empower one’s fellows into becoming their best selves. This is no easy task: it requires grit to rise above challenges to lay the groundwork for meaningful, sustainable mechanisms of growth. Humility, too; standing out and speaking up means being able to take criticism with grace and being flexible enough to accommodate the views of others.

But the rewards are exponential. For every individual who aspires to dream big are countless more who are motivated to do the same.

The individuals honored by Metrobank Foundation were once inspired to act on their ambitions by someone who touched their lives—perhaps a patient teacher, a brave soldier, or a merciful police officer— and told them that they, too, could make a difference.

Now they serve as an example to many. The Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos have consistently raised the bar of excellence in their fields. They have thrived amidst adverse circumstances and demonstrated confidence and sound judgment under pressure. Many of them have proudly raised our flag overseas. They have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with their global peers and demonstrated the creativity, professionalism, and resilience that we pride ourselves on.

As a nation we are blessed with hardworking and honorable public servants, but even among these swelling ranks, our outstanding teachers, soldiers, and police officers stand out. Their narratives of triumph and resilience are an inspiration; they remind us that change is not the burden of one person, but is the responsibility of a collective. More importantly, they remind us that meaningful change does not happen overnight, but is the outcome of years upon years of people doing what they believe is right.

This is why we at the Metrobank Foundation strive to amplify the reach of their vision.

We provide our Outstanding Filipinos with a platform for their voices to be heard across the nation and open avenues of cooperation between like-minded individuals. We trust that with each person they inspire to act, we move the Philippines closer to the peaceful, equitable, and prosperous nation that it can be.

The FLAME, excellence refined through seasons and trials, shining brightly so others may also aspire to be beacons of inspiration for community and country.

Icongratulate the awardees of this year’s search for The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines is responsible for the overall defense of the State. Along with the Philippine National Police, they play an important role in intensifying our campaign against criminality and illegal drugs, in protecting our environment and citizens during calamities and in maintaining peace and order. They are the backbone of this government who ensure that we can and we will deliver the real and genuine change that we promised to our people.

To this year’s awardees, I congratulate you for a job well done. As your Commander-In-Chief, I am giving you the highest merit for demonstrating the admirable form of patriotism. You have my utmost commendation for risking your lives for our sake and for fighting and bleeding for the freedom, integrity and sovereignty of our nation.

I thank the Metrobank Foundation and the Rotary Club of Makati Metro for the recognition you bestowed upon our soldiers who have displayed exemplary valor and service to our country. May these awards reinforce and lift the morale and spirit of our soldiers as they continue to implement the full force of the law.

I salute everyone and mabuhay tayong lahat!

MALACAÑAN PALACE MANILA

RODRIGO ROA DUTERTE President Republic of the Philippines

On behalf of the Department of National Defense, I convey my warmest greetings to the organizers and especially to the awardees of the 2016 Metrobank FoundationRotary Club of Makati Metro Search for The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers (TOPS).

With renewed vigor and determination, we usher in another era in our pursuit of a credible defense organization that is a reliable partner in national development. The Department of National Defense continues to strive for the betterment of our capabilities, especially in our Armed Forces. This is our commitment to our men and women in uniform, who have heeded the call of military service to our motherland.

Indeed, it is through the invaluable sacrifices and achievements of our soldiers, sailors, and airmen that we have been able to collectively overcome numerous challenges through the years.

In a profession where going beyond the call of duty seems to be the norm, our TOPS awardees exemplify our institution’s ideals, inspiring each and every one of us in the defense establishment to do our part in building a peaceful and progressive nation for our fellowmen. Together, let us continue to work hard towards the attainment of our common goals.

Congratulations to all our Outstanding Philippine Soldiers for 2016!

DELFIN N. LORENZANA Secretary Department of National Defense

On behalf of the men and women of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, allow me to express my warmest congratulations to our fellow soldiers who were hailed as The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers (TOPS) 2016.

For 17 years now, the continuing cooperation between the Metrobank Foundation Inc. (MBFI), the Rotary Club of Makati Metro, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines has remained fused in strength by our mutual commitment and endeavor for service excellence. Time and again, the annual Search for TOPS is taken up a notch anew as our partners and stakeholders continue to convey their high regard for our country’s heroes. Through these hand in hand efforts, we add ten more soldiers to the growing list of our TOPS awardees who have exhibited remarkable professionalism and unrelenting commitment to duty.

Therefore, I would like to thank all our partners and stakeholders for always acknowledging the adversities and perils of being a soldier and recompensing them most generously. The AFP is most honored and humbled to have the benevolent partners whose trust and belief in our soldiers is never flinching.

To the awardees, may the prestige of this accolade further encourage the best of your service as you continue to impress good values to the rest of the soldiery.

Once again, congratulations to the winners of the 2016 TOPS! Mabuhay ang kawal Pilipino!

GENERAL RICARDO R. VISAYA AFP Chief of Staff Armed Forces of the Philippines

On behalf of the Metrobank Group, I congratulate The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers of 2016.

The work that you do brings a sense of stability in these changing times. We are able to rest easy knowing that there are loyal, trustworthy, and highly competent individuals charged to safeguard our sovereignty and freedom—even at great personal cost—so that every Filipino has the opportunity to lead a meaningful and dignified life. Allow us to show our gratitude with this recognition.

You join a distinguished roster of individuals— outstanding police officers and teachers — who, like you, have touched the lives of so many while elevating the standards of your respective fields of expertise. We hope that you can learn from one another and work together on initiatives that keep our nation on the path of progress.

I thank our institutional partners, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Rotary Club of Makati Metro for their due diligence and continued commitment to making this program a success. I also thank our distinguished panel of judges for lending their time and talents to ensure that our awardees represent the best and brightest of our armed forces.

Congratulations!

DR. GEORGE S.K. TY Chairman and Founder Metrobank Group and Metrobank Foundation, Inc.

It gives me great pride to introduce The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers of 2016.

These ten officers and enlisted personnel represent the best of our armed forces: competent and compassionate individuals driven to succeed by their love of our country and service to its people. Every mission they undertake is accomplished with equal dedication and zeal— whether it’s a raid on an insurgent camp, a rescue and recovery mission, or a tree-planting activity. After all, the end goal is the same: to leave a better nation for future generations of Filipinos.

Identifying these exemplars is not an easy task. Not because they are few and far between, but because we are presented with so many contenders all outstanding in their own right. I am grateful to the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Rotary Club of Makati Metro for making the search easier; your commitment has made our program a resounding success year after year. I also thank our panel of judges, each of them leaders in their respective fields, for generously sharing their insights with us.

I hope that these stories of selfless dedication and bravery inspire you as much as it has inspired us to work even harder for our vision of a united and prosperous Philippines.

Mabuhay!

ANICETO M. SOBREPEÑA President Metrobank Foundation, Inc.

It is my honor to be chosen as this year’s Chairman of the Final Board of Judges of the annual Search for The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers. Indeed, it gives me great pride in participating in this endeavour to recognize the most gallant men and women of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). The future of the Philippines as a nation depends largely on the contribution of our uniformed personnel, our vanguards of truth and justice, and protector of the people. Their lives remind us of the price freedom requires; they make us appreciate that we are living in a society where peace and prosperity are achievable realities.

I especially express my gratitude to the Metrobank Foundation, the Rotary Club of Makati Metro, and the AFP for organizing this laudable move, as it is through these kinds of events that the Filipinos discover the heroism of our soldiers. For what makes a hero is a person’s strong will and conviction to overcome hardship for selfless reasons, and I salute the men and women of the AFP for their selflessness, courage, and patriotism. No other person lays their lives for the country more than these individuals, and they deserve the highest forms of respect.

May their example serve to empower the rest of the Filipino people to love and service. Mabuhay kayong

I consider it an honor and privilege to be involved in the annual program of the Rotary Club of Makati Metro and Metrobank Foundation, Inc.’ s Search for The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers (TOPS). It has been a long and fruitful 22 years since the Rotary Club of Makati Metro launched the TOPS Awards in 1994 as a way of fulfilling the second objective of Rotary, which is to acknowledge the worthiness of all professions and celebrate excellence in the pursuit of a vocation.

It never fails to give me a great sense of admiration and pride to read and listen to the stories of our soldiers of their respective extraordinary acts of gallantry, heroism, sacrifice, and dedication and commitment to the service. And this year’s TOPS awardees are no exception. Together with the other 176 previous awardees, they represent the finest and noblest soldiers of our armed forces.

The TOPS Awards therefore is our Rotary Club’s way of giving honor and recognition to these modern-day heroes and holding them up as fine and inspiring examples for the rest of society to emulate.

On behalf of the officers and members of the Rotary Club of Makati Metro, I would like to express our sincere congratulations to the ten men and woman of our armed forces who, for this year 2016, have been accorded the accolade The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers.

AL. MIGUEL T. LEOGARDO President, RY 2015-2016

Rotary Club of Makati Metro

District 3830

lahat.

ANDRES B. REYES, JR. Presiding Justice, Court of Appeals Chairperson, 2016 Search for TOPS Final Board of Judges

Highlights 2016 Search for THE OUTSTANDING PHILIPPINE SOLDIERS

2016 The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers

L-R: TSgt. Bernardo Tacbas, MSgt. Andersen Avellana, Jr., I SC Fernando Parcon, Lt . Col. Oliver Bañaria, Lt . Col. Eliglen Villaflor

L-R: Col. Jocelyn Turla, Lt. Col. Wilfredo Manalang, Jr., MSgt. Abel Idusma, TSgt. Danilo Ramos, SSgt. Albert Eleazar

RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SERVICE

The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers is an annual Search jointly undertaken by the Metrobank Foundation, Inc. and the Rotary Club of Makati Metro. The Search is the realization of the shared conviction of the Rotary Club of Makati Metro and the Metrobank Foundation to honor excellence among the men and women in the military as an expression of the civilian sector’s appreciation and gratitude for our soldiers’ selfless acts of gallantry in preserving our nation’s sovereignty.

In many respects, the current TOPS is a fusion of the rich experience of the Rotary Club of Makati Metro in conducting an annual search for outstanding soldiers since 1994 and the long tradition of technical and logistical expertise of the Metrobank Foundation in conducting the Search for Outstanding Teachers for more than 20 years. Whereas before, the Search focused on individual achievements within a single year in particular areas of expertise such as Combat, Technical Innovation and Community Service, TOPS now recognizes the total contribution of our soldiers during the entirety of their career in the military. Thus, winning in TOPS sets apart the awardees from ordinary soldiers as they serve as models of excellence, professionalism, integrity and nobility in the military services. As a distinguished batch, the winners do not anymore compete with their colleagues in future Searches.

Two Enlisted Personnel and one Commissioned Officer from each of the three military branches, namely the Philippine Army, the Philippine Navy, and the Philippine Air Force, will be selected as winners. One winner will also be declared from the Technical Support Group of the military, i.e. the medical corps, the corps of professors, and the Judge Advocate Group Office.

TOPS is supported through a 10 million endowment fund set up by Metrobank and Metrobank Foundation Chairman Dr. George S. K. Ty in 1999.

Those who have sworn to lay down their lives for others have a deeper respect for human life and dignity. Those who have lived through war are the strongest advocates for peace.

In an ideal world, The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers of 2016 would remain untested, for there would be no battles to be fought or war-torn communities to be rebuilt. But reality is complex, and our armed forces have to contend with an intergenerational cycle of insurgency, extremist beliefs, and political shifts—and, on occasion, the ravages of nature.

Facing such challenges on a daily basis is not for the faint of heart: it takes discipline and dedication to hone one’s skills and stay true to the mission. And so those who go over and beyond the call of duty stand out from the corps. Their acts of valor inspire peers and subordinates alike to push themselves further. The honors that they have received become milestones that others can aspire to gain. The bridges that they build among communities divided by strife bring hope to a nation longing for reconciliation.

Eliglen Ferrer Villaflor PA (GSC)

“Balancing work and personal life has always been a challenge to a soldier who is a family man. Despite this, I continue to serve in the military for it makes me happy knowing that I contribute positively to our community.”

Acommitment to peace has made Lieutenant Colonel Eliglen Villaflor an exemplary soldier and leader.

As Commanding Officer of the 4th Special Forces Battalion in Basilan, he was able to recapture an Abu Sayyaf stronghold and recovered other encampments and firearms. He also led the apprehension of Jerry Ibon Alam, one of the most wanted figures in the Basilan drug trade.

During his stint as a United Nations peacekeeper, Lt. Col. Villaflor successfully negotiated for the release of civilians abducted by Syrian rebels in the Golan Heights, for which he was awarded a UN Force Commander’s Commendation.

His efforts to nurture a culture of peace in Basilan are exemplary. Chief among these is the “Children of War” program which trained soldiers and parents to address child trauma. He conceptualized the acclaimed Brigada Masjid project which bridged religious divides during Ramadan. And as the prime organizer of the “From Camp to School, From Guns to Books” initiative, he encouraged re-entry into the public education system by converting a Moro National Liberation Front camp into a school.

Lt. Col. Villaflor is married and has two children.

PHILIPPINE ARMY Commissioned Officer

Chief of Staff

Special Forces Regiment, Special Operations Command, Philippine Army, Fort Ramon Magsaysay, Palayan City, Nueva Ecija

Lieutenant Colonel

Battalion Commander (at the time of nomination) 4th Special Forces Battalion, Special Forces Regiment, Special Operations Command, Philippine Army, Isabela City, Basilan

Enlisted Personnel

Chief Intelligence Non-Commissioned Officer

1st Infantry Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division, Philippine Army, Infanta, Quezon

“I wouldn’t have come this far if it weren’t for my fellow soldiers. I am here because of their collective efforts, and I thank them for that.”

Commitment to service, unending perseverance, and teeming optimism are the qualities that best define Technical Sergeant Danilo Ramos.

As the Chief Intelligence NCO of his unit, TSgt. Ramos serves as the principal handler of its Intelligence Projects and Case Operation Plans. He played a significant role in operations which helped dismantle and defeat guerrilla fronts of insurgents in Laguna.

A recipient of numerous awards, including three Bronze Cross medals, 15 Military Merit medals, and Sagisag ng Ulirang Kawal award, TSgt. Ramos

understands that successful intelligence gathering is hinged on cultivating collaborative relations in his assigned communities. His battalion organizes the Laguna Youth for Peace and Development and Youth Leadership Summit initiatives. He also supervises feeding programs for indigent children, and helps clean and repair schools under Brigada Eskwela.

TSgt. Ramos led his battalion in the development of the first Ecological Youth Park and Eco-Saddle Recreation Area in Laguna, in partnership with the National Power Corporation and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. His battalion successfully instituted rattan production as a viable alternative livelihood in Paete, Laguna which helped curb illegal logging and other environmentally destructive activities in the area.

A non-commissioned officer of the Philippine Army Battalion since 1991, he is a husband and father to four children.

PHILIPPINE ARMY

Danilo Delos Santos Ramos PA

Technical Sergeant

Enlisted Personnel

Technical Sergeant

Bernardo Labao Tacbas PA

First Sergeant

Headquarters & Headquarters Service Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, Camp Edilberto Evangelista, Cagayan de Oro City

“As a soldier, I have always shown my colleagues that we should be accurate, disciplined, and never abusive.”

Technical Sergeant Bernardo Tacbas is a confident and versatile taskmaster, shifting seamlessly from peacekeeper to educator to law enforcer.

As platoon leader in the security team of a United Nations mission to Liberia, Africa, TSgt. Tacbas exemplified the perseverance and dedication of a world-class Filipino soldier. He would eventually cascade the best practices of his overseas peers to his young colleagues back home.

While on assignment in Misamis Oriental, TSgt. Tacbas volunteered to substitute for a teacher who got sick with malaria. For three months, he taught Math, HEKASI, and Filipino to 60 grade school students. The experience gave him an appreciation of the role of educators in nation-building.

TSgt. Tacbas is as adept in maintaining civilian volunteer and information networks as he is in enforcing rules within army ranks as a member of the Military Police. He has participated in many emergency response initiatives, including the urgent evacuation of 10,000 residents of a conflict-ridden area in North Cotabato.

TSgt. Tacbas is a recipient of numerous awards, including the United Nations Service Medal and Ribbon. He is married and has three daughters.

PHILIPPINE ARMY

Lieutenant Colonel

Student

Armed Forces of the Philippines Command and General Staff College

Camp Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City

Commanding Officer (at the time of nomination)

Marine Battalion Landing Team-8, 2nd Marine Brigade, Philippine Marine Corps, Maimbung, Sulu

As a teenager, Lieutenant Colonel Wilfredo Manalang, Jr. dreamed of serving in the armed forces. Now a decorated officer, he is paving the way for the youth of conflict-ridden areas to fulfill their own ambitions.

Lt. Col. Manalang’s expertise in intelligence security and combat has been instrumental in conflict resolution in Mindanao. In 2000, he led the clearing of rebel checkpoints along Narciso Ramos Highway, which led to the taking of three Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) main camps. He also directed a combat operation in Mamasapano,

Maguindanao which resulted in the neutralization of members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and capture of their camp.

Lt. Col. Manalang holds himself and his troops to high standards. After receiving his master’s degree in Public Management from the Development Academy of the Philippines, he institutionalized a program of action and set milestones for his battalion. Its success led to numerous recognitions for the battalion, including the coveted Philippine Marine Corps Kahusayan “K” Award for the year 2014 and 2015.

A caring husband and father of five, Lt. Col. Manalang is recognized as Adopted Son of Lebak, Sultan Kudarat for showing outstanding leadership vital to achieving peace and sustainable development in the community.

PHILIPPINE NAVY Commissioned Officer

Wilfredo Baylon Manalang, Jr. PN (M)

“My interest, dedication, and loyalty are what made me stay for 27 years in the military service up to this day.”

“Despite the challenges, I continuously conduct civil military operations (CMO) to further avoid violence and keep our civilians safe.”

Staff Sergeant Albert Eleazar has built a reputation for being a guiding presence in the ranks, ready to step up to any challenge.

In 2004, he helped save the lives of eight Mindanao State University students kidnapped by the MILF Breakaway Group. As battalion staff officer, SSgt. Eleazar has helped ensure peaceful and credible elections by providing security support in Marawi City and Maguing, Lanao del Sur in 2013.

SSgt. Eleazar has mastered and cascaded the Global Positioning System and Night Fighting System to his colleagues, which have vastly improved their combat effectiveness during missions. He generously covers

extra shifts so that his men are able to attend activities where they can represent the military’s highest standards to the community.

Community outreach ranks high among SSgt. Eleazar’s priorities. His anti-vice advocacy has seen him oversee awareness-raising lectures and sports fests. He has facilitated feeding programs and distribution of school supplies, as well as medical missions and cleanup drives.

At his current posting in Sultan Kudarat, he engaged community and local government stakeholders for the renovation of the barangay water system to alleviate the alarming water shortage caused by the El Niño phenomenon.

A devoted husband and father of four, SSgt. Eleazar is a 2014 Distinguished Marine Enlisted Personnel awardee and recipient of the Gold Cross Medal for gallantry in action.

PHILIPPINE NAVY Enlisted Personnel

Albert Dangan Eleazar PN (M)

Platoon Sergeant

6 Marine Company, Marine Battalion Landing Team 6, 1st Marine Brigade, Philippine Marine Corps, Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat

Staff Sergeant

Enlisted Personnel

Intelligence Specialist Chief

Fernando Junio Parcon PN

Petty Officer-in-Charge

Counter Intelligence Group, Naval Intelligence & Security Force, Philippine Navy, Naval Station Jose Francisco, Taguig City

“I engage the youth in sports by voluntarily teaching them boxing and arnis. I do this because I want to keep them away from vices, and to help them have a sense of direction in life.”

Asportsman turned strategist, Intelligence Specialist Chief Fernando Parcon channeled the discipline and focus of competitive sport into countering destabilization plots and corrupt practices.

ISC Parcon has handled his fair share of high-profile cases, collecting sensitive information that helped the AFP foil several threats, including the further recruitment of soldiers by disgruntled elements in the military. He was also involved in the rescue of 71 human trafficking victims in Malate, Manila in 2012.

One of his biggest accomplishments was preventing an anomalous delivery of substandard spare parts that would have cost the Navy 100 million pesos. He was also a key member of Task Group Salamander, an anti-illegal drug operation, which successfully identified and apprehended drug users within the ranks.

A bemedaled athlete who represented the country overseas in boxing and arnis, ISC Parcon conducts self defense training and sports clinics for young people and helps facilitate the Navy’s sporting activities.

ISC Parcon is a recipient of numerous awards, including eight Military Merit Medals and 2012 Regular Agent of the Year for Administration by the Naval Intelligence and Security Force. He is married and has three children.

PHILIPPINE NAVY

Office

Communication,

“I wanted to be a soldier for three reasons. First is because of my father’s influence as former enlisted personnel. Second is my being a people person. Lastly, is because of the nobility of its purpose. Soldiery is God, country, and people.”

Asecond-generation airman, Lieutenant Colonel Oliver Bañaria continues to soar after 25 years in service.

He earned his wings and flew combat missions as an attack helicopter pilot, spending a decade providing air support for sensitive missions. He was the recipient of the Gold Cross Medal, for a timely intervention during an Abu Sayyaf raid and again for the delivery of air munitions in several key military operations in Mindanao.

On the ground, Lt. Col. Bañaria specializes in communication, electronics, and information systems. He has trained at the US Army Cyber

Center for Excellence, US Army Signal School in Fort Gordon Georgia, and at the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School, Fort Bragg North Carolina. He applied his learnings from his studies abroad as School Commandant of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Civil Military Operations (AFP-CMO) School.

Outside of combat, one of his major accomplishments was the development of the “PAF Unified Clearance System,” also known as the “PAF One stop-shop,” which connects and unifies several clearance offices in the air force, reducing processing times from five working days to a matter of minutes.

A trained civil and public affairs officer, he spearheaded high-impact community projects—ranging from youth formation to relief operations—in his mission areas.

Lt. Col. Bañaria is a recipient of the Distinguished Service Star and the Gawad sa Kaunlaran award, the highest distinction for civil military operations, for the success of the social integration program for rebel returnees in Palawan. He is married and has one child.

PHILIPPINE AIR FORCE Commissioned Officer

Oliver Alina Bañaria PAF Lieutenant Colonel

Director for Communications

of the Assistant Chief of Air Staff for

Electronics and Information Systems, O-A6, Philippine Air Force, Col. Jesus Villamor Air Base, Pasay City

Master Sergeant Abel Idusma has made a name not only for himself but also to the Philippine Air Force and the AFP. Thanks to his dedication to duty and ability to deliver under pressure.

MSgt. Idusma distinguished himself during the search, rescue, and recovery operations during disasters like the crashed Cebu Pacific Flight 387 in 1998 and flash floods brought by Typhoons Sendong and Pablo. Despite dismal weather conditions and the treacherous terrain compounded by the threat of NPA fighters in the crash site, MSgt. Abel Idusma and his team members bravely responded to various emergency calls. His excellent skill in flying in inclement weather has been instrumental in conducting response missions during typhoon season.

A graduate of various Disaster Risk Reduction related trainings, he organized the pioneering

Enlisted Personnel

Master Sergeant

Group Sergeant Major Tactical Operations Group 10, 3rd Air Division, Philippine Air Force, Cagayan de Oro City

volunteer emergency response organization in Cagayan de Oro City and continues to spread his advocacy through speaking engagements, search-and-rescue training, and consultations for Local Government Units and barangays . An avid environmentalist, he also actively promotes the protection and preservation of natural resources to mitigate the effect of natural disasters.

MSgt. Idusma is instrumental in making efficient systems and devising resource-saving solutions for equipment maintenance. He institutionalized the computerization of documents in his unit that resulted in faster information transmission. He also designed a specialized room for the safekeeping of various rescue gears and modified parts of radio transceivers and led the repairs of the old Lumbia Airport, saving the government considerable cost.

A husband and father to his four children, MSgt. Idusma was a recipient of the Bronze Cross medal and Airman of the Year award in 1996 as well as the PAF NonCommissioned Officer Outstanding Alumnus Award in 2014 for his outstanding accomplishments in various field in the military service .

“Sacrificing my own life so that others may live is an honor for me.”

PHILIPPINE AIR FORCE

Abel Lim Idusma PAF

Enlisted Personnel

Armaments Branch Supervisor

Armament Branch, 463rd Avionics Armament Maintenance Squadron, 15th Strike Wing, Philippine Air Force, Major Danilo Atienza Air Base, Sangley Point, Cavite City

Our troops are fortunate to have peers like Master Sergeant Andersen Avellana, Jr., whose deft handling and maintenance of weaponry have kept our soldiers safe.

Unable to pursue mechanical engineering due to financial difficulties, MSgt. Avellana enlisted in the Philippine Air Force (PAF), where he found his calling as an expert weapons mechanic technician. This allowed him to marry his fascination with machinery with his commitment to serve the country. MSgt. Avellana’s expertise has extended the lifespan of the PAF’s arsenal. His Crimper Project, which repaired and reused condemned

rocket launchers, has become an in-house capability of his wing and is poised to generate 20 million pesos in savings. Another major accomplishment: developing a repair process for the intervalometer, an essential component of any rocket launch activity.

MSgt. Avellana led the overhaul of 10 intervalometers and helped the PAF save 1.5 million pesos in procurement costs. He also completed the repairs on three optical sights of the MD520-MG Aircraft, generating 400,000 pesos in savings.

A PAF Enlisted Personnel of the Year awardee, MSgt. Avellana lends his time and expertise to his wing’s community development projects. These initiatives encompass all aspects of community life, including medical missions, coastal cleanup drives, and adopt-a-school programs. He is married and has five children.

“The government should enhance and support all the needs of the AFP to prevent drugs, kidnapping, and threats to our national territories.”

PHILIPPINE AIR FORCE

Andersen Daing Avellana, Jr. PAF

Master Sergeant

“I want to be a ‘brave soldier with a good heart’. As a medical doctor, I need the courage to make decisions for my patients to survive, and a good heart to provide them good service.”

Colonel Jocelyn Turla has dedicated her life to serving the country by saving the lives of the men and women in the service.

Having served as commanding officer of several military hospitals, Col. Turla has been at the frontlines of skirmishes and disasters exhibiting a cool head and a steady hand even during the most trying of circumstances. One such situation was her quick response during typhoon Violeta and Winnie in 2004. With landslides and flashfloods isolating the towns of Infanta and Nakar in Quezon,

TECHNICAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

Commissioned Officer

Colonel

Chief Surgeon

Philippine Navy

Naval Station Jose Francisco, Taguig City

Deputy for Professionals (at the time of nomination)

Armed Forces of the Philippines Medical Center, Camp Victoriano K Luna, Quezon City

Col. Turla and her team rappelled down difficult terrain and traversed heavily damaged roads to establish an emergency hospital to evacuate and treat thousands of typhoon victims.

She champions the wellness of troops and their families by organizing community programs during her postings, most recently at the AFP Medical Center, which aim to empower families through health care and disease prevention, alongside information campaigns and other interventions. As a paediatrician, she also initiated different child healthcare advocacies in her field of assignment.

A recipient of the Distinguished Service Star award, Col. Turla is a model of professional competence. She demonstrates this quality in her community engagements as military representative, initiating health projects in Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, and the Zamboanga Peninsula. She is married and has one child.

Jocelyn Pancrudo Turla MC (GSC)

2016 Search for THE OUTSTANDING PHILIPPINE SOLDIERS

Final Board of Judges

Chairperson

Presiding Justice Andres B. Reyes, Jr. Court of Appeals

Justice Andres B. Reyes was promoted to Associate Justice of the Court of Appeals (CA) in 1999; he is currently the court’s Presiding Justice.

Justice Reyes began his career as secretary of his father, also a presiding justice of the CA. He then worked as prosecutor and then Chief Legal Officer of the Office of the Tanodbayan, before his appointment as Judge of the Metropolitan Trial Court in 1987

Vice-Chairperson

Chairperson Alicia Dela Rosa-Bala Civil Service Commission

Alicia dela Rosa-Bala is the incumbent Chairperson of the Civil Service Commission. She previously served at the Department of Social Welfare and Development for 39 years, most recently as Undersecretary for Policy and Plans.

From 2012 to 2015, she was Deputy SecretaryGeneral for the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Department in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Chairperson Bala was appointed as the country’s first child rights representative to the ASEAN Commission for the Promotion and the Protection of the Rights of Women and Children in 2010. She was also the first elected head of the first session of the Commission on Social Development, United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and Pacific in 2008.

Chairperson Bala has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from Centro Escolar University and the University of the Philippines Institute of Social Work and Community Development.

Member

Emmanuel C. Lorenzana

President and Chief Executive Officer TV 5 Network

Emmanuel C. Lorenzana is President and CEO of TV5 Network. He was formerly Executive Vice President at Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company, where he also previously served as head of the group’s multi-media office. At Smart, he spearheaded Individual/Personal Mobile Business.

Outside of the telco industry, Lorenzana was President and CEO of the NutriAsia Group and Chairman and Managing Director of Unilever Malaysia and Singapore.

He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering Degree from the University of the Philippines and attended various Executive Programs at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Boston, Kellog School of Management in Chicago, and Ashridge Management School in London.

Member David O. Chua

President Cathay Pacific Steel Corporation

David Chua is the President of Cathay Pacific Steel Corporation (CAPASCO) and Asia Pacific Capital Equities and Securities Corporation.

A member of the Advisory Board of the Metropolitan Bank and Trust Company and Vice President of the Federation of the Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc., he also sits on a number of publicly-listed corporate boards and is Trustee of the University of the East and the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center.

Mr. Chua has a bachelor’s degree in financial services management from St. Mary’s College in California, and an MBA from the JL Kellogg School of Management (Northwestern University) and Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Graduate School of Management.

and Regional Trial Court in 1990. He currently teaches law at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila.

A third generation justice, he obtained his Bachelor of Laws degree from Ateneo de Manila University and his Master of Public Administration degree from Philippine Women’s University. He also participated in the Top Management Program of the Asian Institute of Management.

Member

Most Rev. Roberto C. Mallari D.D.

Bishop

Diocese of San Jose, Nueva Ecija

Most Rev. Roberto C. Mallari, DD was installed as Bishop of San Jose, Nueva Ecija in May 2012 and currently serves as Chairman of the Episcopal Commission on Catechesis and Catholic Education of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines. While stationed in San Fernando, Pampanga, he was parish priest of The Lord’s Ascencion Parish from October 1998 to May 2006, and afterwards served as president of University of Assumption from June 2007 to 2012.

Bishop Mallari studied at the University of Santo Tomas and San Carlos Seminary. He was ordained priest in 1982.

Member

Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, CICM, Ph.D.

President

St. Louis University

Father Gilbert Sales, CICM is the President of Saint Louis University in Baguio City. He is concurrently president of Saint Louis College CSF, a position he has held since 2009, and a board member of the Association of Catholic Universities of the Philippines.

During his early years with the Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Fr. Gilbert was assigned to missions in Hong Kong and Mongolia. He would go on to become Executive Director of Caritas Internationalis Mongolia and Chairperson of the Justice, Peace & Integrity of Creation of the Vatican Representative Office in Ulaanbaatar.

Fr. Gilbert was ordained priest in 1992. He studied at Maryhill School of Theology and Saint Louis University, where he received his bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees.

Member

Ma. Esther O. Santos

President

PLDT - Smart Foundation, Inc.

Ma. Esther Santos is President of the PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF), a position she has held since 2011. She is currently a member of the Board of Trustees of Radio Veritas and ASA Microfinance.

Before joining PSF, she was the only Filipino to be designated country delegate for Fundacion Codespa, a non-profit organization dedicated to international development cooperation that creates development strategies and programs, with His Royal Highness the Prince of Spain as honorary chairman.

Ms. Santos received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and Master in Development Economics from the University of the Philippines School of Economics. She is a member of the pioneer batch that completed the Advanced Management Program of the University of Asia & the Pacific and the Instituto de Estudios Superiores de la Empresa (IESE) Business School in Barcelona, Spain.

2016 Search for THE OUTSTANDING PHILIPPINE SOLDIERS

Preliminary Board of Judges h

TOPSOLDIERS is an association of all members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines who have been recognized under the Metrobank Foundation – Rotary Club of Makati Metro Search for The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers or TOPS.

VISION AND MISSION STATEMENT

A dynamic organization of outstanding soldiers who are committed to promoting a culture of professionalism, excellence and social responsibility within the Armed Forces of the Philippines and among key sectors of Philippine society.

Individually, members of the TOPSOLDIERS envision to grow as disciplined, focused and committed individuals responsive to the needs of the nation and concern for the consequences of our actions. They are optimistic and fully cognizant of their role in meeting the challenges of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and in their communities. TOPSOLDIERS seek to excel by constantly seeking for self improvement and professional advancement. They have the right relationships with God and their families.

TOPSOLDIERS also commit themselves to live morally upright lives and genuinely serve the Filipino people, to promote a culture of excellence and transformation among themselves and in their institutions, to promote organizational and management excellence in their institutions in the communities where they serve and to undertake meaningful social, economic and civic projects.

PURPOSES AND OBJECTIVES

The general objective of TOPSOLDIERS is to promote a culture of professionalism and excellence among the awardees of The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers (TOPS).

The specific objectives of TOPSOLDIERS are:

a) To strengthen relations among all awardees of the TOPS through various projects, initiatives and assemblies;

b) To deepen among its members the love of country and respect for the Constitution and the laws of the land by initiating significant and beneficial projects and other activities specifically aimed towards strengthening key sectors of society and promoting civil military relations; and

c) To instill a sense of gratitude among its members by being committed to TOPSOLDIERS in all its undertakings and by providing support to the endeavors of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Metrobank Foundation, Inc., and the Rotary Club of Makati Metro.

Jose T. Deles, Jr. Trustee and Corporate Secretary International Center for Innovation, Transformation and Excellence in Governance (INCITEGov)

Bishop Noel A. Pantoja National Director Philippine Council for Evangelical Churches

Amelyn Jean Veloso Anchor / Host CNN Philippines

Atty. Sedfrey M. Candelaria Dean Ateneo de Manila Law School

Martin M. Andanar Secretary Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO)

Atty. Jose Manuel I. Diokno Dean, College of Law De La Salle University

The Organization of Philippine Soldiers with Outstanding Leadership, Dedication, Integrity, Excellence and Responsibility to Society (TOPSOLDIERS)

Rev. Fr. Marvin S. Mejia Secretary-General Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines

2016 Search for THE OUTSTANDING PHILIPPINE SOLDIERS

VISION

To be the country’s premier corporate philanthropic foundation contributing a significant impact on social development.

MISSION

As the heart of the Metrobank Group, we live up to our “Excel. Engage. Empower” roadmap that embodies who we are and what we do.

The Foundation shall endeavor to be the country’s premier corporate philanthropic foundation contributing a significant impact on social development. As a development organization, we aim to uplift individuals and the sectors they represent and strategically link with institutions for a shared-purpose. By creating and propagating a culture of excellence and providing solutions to stakeholder’s needs, we continuously expand our scope of reach and be at the forefront in serving communities. “Excel. Engage. Empower” or the 3Es shall remain our roadmap.

The Metrobank Foundation, Inc. (MBFI) was established on January 8, 1979 by Dr. George S. K. Ty, sixteen (16) years after he founded the Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company (Metrobank). As the corporate social responsibility arm of the Metrobank Group, the Foundation implements various programs that recognize excellence among key professions, education, visual arts and design, and healthcare. It also maintains a dynamic partnership with other organizations that likewise provide services for the underprivileged and marginalized sectors of society and remains responsive to aid survivors of natural calamities in the Philippines and in Asia through relief and rehabilitation efforts.

RECOGNITION PROGRAMS

Search for Outstanding Teachers (SOT) recognizes the country’s top educators aimed at fostering a culture of excellence and community service for the teaching profession. Started in 1984 is implemented in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd).

The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers (TOPS) honors the valor, gallantry, and self-sacrifice demonstrated by the men and women of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), in partnership with the Rotary Club of Makati Metro.

Country’s Outstanding Police Officers in Service (COPS) affirms the shared responsibility between our gallant police officers and the community in crime prevention and solution. It is undertaken with the Rotary Club of New Manila East, Philippine Savings Bank, and in close coordination with the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE) hails Filipino artistry and creativity through the annual competitions in painting, sculpture, interior design, and architecture.

Professorial Chair Lectures, in partnership with government and academic institutions aim to strengthen key professions in the areas of law, health, public service and governance.

Search for Journalists of the Year (JOY) celebrates and honors distinguished Filipino journalists for their body of work that has contributed to the development of the nation and inspired other media practitioners. This is in partnership with Probe Media Foundation, Inc.

EDUCATION

Metrobank-MTAP-DepEd Math Challenge (MMC) raises the mathematical competitiveness of elementary and high school students through the annual mathematics competition in partnership with the Mathematics Teachers Association of the Philippines (MTAP) and the Department of Education (DepEd).

MetroGold Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to underprivileged but academicallydeserving students, while instilling among scholars the value of ‘paying-it-forward’ the gift of education they have received.

National Teachers’ Month encourages the different sectors of the society to pay tribute to the teaching profession in line with Presidential Proclamation No. 242 declaring September 5 to October 5 as National Teachers’ Month.

HEALTH

Manila Doctors Hospital (MDH) serves as the healthcare arm of the Foundation, offering a wide array of social services such as subsidies for in-house patients, outreach programs, medical missions, and other health-related interventions in adopted communities.

GRANTS

Financial and In-kind Grant Assistance is extended to socio-civic and non-government organizations, as well as, local and national government agencies whose projects/programs are aligned with the thrusts of the Foundation in education, healthcare, and visual arts, including the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

CALAMITY ASSISTANCE

The Foundation remains responsive to aid survivors of natural calamities in the Philippines and in Asia through relief and rehabiliation efforts.

Board of Trustees:

Dr. George S. K. Ty

Hon. Edgardo J. Angara

Arthur V. Ty

Fabian S. Dee

Aniceto M. Sobrepeña

Alfred V. Ty

Elvira Ong Chan

Marixi R. Prieto

Milagros G. Drilon

Board of Advisers:

Hon. Artemio V. Panganiban Chairman

Washington Z. SyCip Senior Adviser

Dr. Placido L. Mapa, Jr. Senior Adviser

Dr. Antonio S. Abacan, Jr. Senior Adviser

James Go Adviser

Mary V. Ty Adviser

Angel Ngu Adviser

Officers:

Dr. George S.K. Ty Chairman

Arthur V. Ty Vice Chairman

Aniceto M. Sobrepeña President

Elvira Ong Chan ExecutiveVicePresident

Anjanette T. Dy Buncio Senior Vice President

Alesandra Ty Corporate Secretary

Zandra M. Ty Vice President

Nicanor L. Torres, Jr. Executive Director

Irene D. Labitad Asst.Executive Director

Atty. Melissa K. Gabor Asst.Corporate Secretary

Marilou C. Bartolome Controller

Antonietta O. Chua Treasurer

Pamela N. Gardaya Assistant Treasurer

Metrobank_Foundation

MetrobnkFoundation