Pangasinense soldier is TOPS awardee

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, March 6 (PNA)-- The province of Pangasinan once again proved it is one of the best provinces in the country after a Pangasinense soldier emerged as one of the winners in the 2010 Search for The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers (TOPS).

Technical Sergeant Marcelo Batingan, who hails from Mabini town, joined the elite roster of outstanding soldiers in the country, when he was cited as TOPS awardee in the Philippine Navy Enlisted Personnel Category launched by the Metrobank Foundation, Inc. and the Rotary Club of Makati Metro.

Governor Amado T. Espino, Jr., a bemedalled police and military officer himself, congratulated Batingan, saying his award manifests Batingan's gallantry as a Filipino soldier as well as his best assets as a Pangasinense.

The governor and members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan likewise commended Batingan for making the province proud of his achievement.

Batingan has been in service for 15 years in the Philippine Navy and during his professional career with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, he has engaged in acts of heroism and other extraordinary acts in line of duty.

He has also remained dedicated, hardworking and compassionate to his duty as a soldier of the Filipino people and contributed much by being an exemplary soldier and by greatly influencing not only his juniors but also his peers and superiors.

Aside from his contributions to service, Batingan was also active in the community which gained him an honor of becoming one of the TOPS awardees.

TOPS, is an annual search which pays tribute to examples of gallantry, competence, professionalism, and integrity among members of the Armed Forces.

Batingan received his award from President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo last March 4 in Malacanang Palace. All awardees received a trophy and a cash prize of P250,000. (PNA)
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