The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) honored Gerald Anderson’s act of heroism for taking part in the search and rescue mission during the onslaught of typhoon Carina.
Gerald, a coast guard auxiliary commander, was given the “Search and Rescue” medal by the PCG for his act of heroism when he waded into flood waters while on a search and rescue mission in Barangay Sto. Domingo in Quezon City.
According to PCG, the medal is given to individuals who did “exemplary acts in the conduct of search and rescue, resulting in saving life at sea.”
Gerald received his “Search and Rescue” medal from Philippine Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Ronnie Gil Gavan during an awarding ceremony at the PCG National Headquarters in Manila.
“He is always present during the Coast Guard’s relief operations and disaster rehabilitation. He continues to help Aetas in Zambales, recovering families in Marawi, and even donated medical supplies and tents during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. Together with Auxiliary Ensign Julia Barretto and other PCGA members, Auxiliary CDR Anderson also donated bags filled with school supplies for the children of Pag-asa Island,” PCG spokesperson Rear Adm. Armando Balilo said.
“Thankful ako sa coastguard na ni-recognize nila ’yung ginawa ko. But I share this award with other rescuers, other volunteers, lahat po ng nag-donate din para makatulong sa iba. One thing I said na sana, my actions or kung ano po ’yung nakita nila sa Facebook will inspire others to also help, but not necessarily kailangan nilang gawin ’yun [paglangoy sa baha],” Gerald said after receiving his medal. (NIGEL CHAVEZ DE ESTRADA)
