Pinoy peacekeeper in Golan Heights feted for bravery

A Filipino peacekeeper at Golan Heights who drove through gunfire from anti-government forces to protect his passengers was feted as Peacekeeper of the Month at the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force headquarters in Camp Fauoar in Syria last week. Philippine Contingent commanding officer Lt. Col. Nolie Anquillano said T/Sgt. Herman Galiza received the award during the Monday command briefing. “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,” Lt. Anquillano said, according to a news release of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). Galiza is a member of the 6th Philippine contingent, which assumed peacekeeping duties in Golan Heights and relieved the 5th Philippine Contingent last November 19. At the time, he was assigned to the Philippine Battalion (PHILBATT) operations unit. He was awarded by UNDOF chief Maj. Gen. Iqbal Singh Singha for exemplary performance and devotion to duty. Last year, Galiza served as bus driver for the Austrian and Croatian Contingents rotation convoy heading from Camp Faouar to Damascus International Airport on Nov. 28 last year. The 25-vehicle convoy came under heavy fire by anti-government forces while on its way to the airport. Galiza immediately accelerated to secure his 14 Austrian passengers. "Anquillano is very proud of the maiden award received by Galiza in recognition of his outstanding contribution to peacekeeping in UNDOF," the DFA said. Philippine Ambassador to Israel Generoso Calonge said Galiza’s bravery and exemplary performance in the line of duty "are truly remarkable and worth noting." "He highlighted the gallantry and selflessness of each and every Filipino soldier at home or anywhere in the world. He truly deserves the award, commendation and recognition of the Community of Nations. The Philippines is proud of you.  Mabuhay po kayo and the rest of the Philippine Contingent in the Golan,” Calonge said. - VVP, GMA News