MANILA -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. personally handed over special financial assistance to 12 soldiers who sustained injuries in fighting the militant Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group involved in the bombing of the Mindanao State University-Marawi last month.

The 12 soldiers are currently confined at the Army General Hospital (AGH).

Aside from providing the financial support, President Marcos also led the awarding of the Gold Cross Medal, Military Merit Medal with Bronze Spearhead Device, and Wounded Personnel Medal to four wounded in action (WIA) soldiers.

In his talks with the troops, Marcos recognized their courage and unwavering dedication to protect the Filipino people and to defend the nation against elements that threaten the security of the country.

President Marcos also assured them of the government’s continued efforts to implement programs that will provide assistance to battle casualties and promote the welfare of the personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and their families.

He also assured them that his office is acting on the request of the AGH and the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital (CESH) for additional equipment, allowing them to better serve the troops.

President Marcos was accompanied by Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo during his visit to the wounded soldiers along with AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., and Philippine Army (PA) Commanding General, Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, among others. (PND)