PNoy awarded Freedom Medal in Germany for 'successful reforms'

President Benigno Aquino III was presented the Friedrich Naumann Foundation Freedom Medal in Berlin on Saturday during his official visit to Europe and the United States.

According to a news release from the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom (FNF), Aquino received the medal for "his successful reforms in the areas of education, anti-corruption and rule of law."

FNF Chairman Dr. Wolfgang Gerhardt said Aquino in behalf of the Filipino nation serves as an inspiration worldwide.

"You are the embodiment and the instigator of this inspiration. Your straight path, the daang matuwid, is our motivation too," Gerhardt said.

Aquino, upon receiving the award said the recognition helps him further realize the importance of his work which focuses on solidarity.

"We need solidarity in defense for freedom. We have to assist each other in pursuit of all freedoms. We will forever be grateful for the recognition of our efforts in advancing the cause of humanity," he said.

The Friedrich Naumann Freedom Medal is awarded to outstanding personalities who engage themselves for more democracy, human rights and market economy in partnership with the Foundation.

Other awardees are Bulgarian Prime Minister Simeon Saxe-Coburg Gotha, Western Cape Prime Minister Helen Zille and Liberal International President Hans van Baalen.

Aquino is currently in Europe where he seeks to attract investors as well as to rally support for the Philippine position on the West Philippine Sea. — Andrei Medina/JST, GMA News