After the Monday flag ceremony of November 20, LGU Bayambang gave a Bayambang-born soldier his long-due recognition for his exceptional bravery and leadership during the Marawi Siege of June-October 2017 and in gratitude to his unwavering devotion to country.

After a five-month-long armed conflict between Philippine government security forces and militants who reportedly joined the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), Marawi City has been freed from the Maute group. One of the valiant soldiers who fought and won against the ISIS terrorists is 1Lt Geraldo Alvarez of the 4th Mechanized Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army. He is 38 years old, a resident of Brgy. Bacnono.

Media accounts have detailed how Alvarez saved 15 of his men from certain death. For his remarkable feat, he has been nominated to receive the Medal of Valor, the highest and rarest award a soldier can possibly receive.

1Lt. Alvarez received a resounding applause and standing ovation from his townmates. The father of two kids and husband to Argie Vallo said he is thankful to LGU Bayambang for the support.