SPECIAL Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr. honored outstanding members of the Special Action Force (SAF) at its headquarters in Santa Rosa, Laguna, on Monday.
A total of 16 troopers from the elite force of the Philippine National Police (PNP) were recognized during the occasion.
“The nature of your work requires competence, sound judgment, teamwork, and steady leadership,” Lagdameo said. “Every instance of exemplary performance strengthens and elevates the standards of the entire organization. It reinforces professionalism, builds public trust, and sets a clear example for others to follow.”
He encouraged the troopers to serve the Filipino people with integrity, discipline and professionalism.
Assisted by Maj. Gen. Mark Pespes, Lagdameo conferred the Medalya ng Kagalingan (PNP Medal of Merit) to members of the 11th Special Action Battalion (11SAB) for a successful operation in Kibungan, Benguet, last month.
The mission led to the capture of Dawnaesh Eban, one of the top five most wanted in the province, and his accomplices.
The Palace official also presented the Medalya ng Pagkilala (PNP Commendation Medal) to Police Capt. Joseph Pelobello of the 9th Special Action Battalion (9SAB) for academic excellence.
Pelobello graduated as a top five student in the International Police Exchange Program at the Abu Dhabi Police College in the United Arab Emirates last January.
Lagdameo also paid tribute to SAF troopers who perished in the line of duty and those injured while fulfilling their missions.
“As we move forward, may this recognition inspire everyone in the Special Action Force to continue striving for excellence guided by accountability, respect for the rule of law, and genuine commitment to public service,” he said.