An environmental awards group from the Republic of Korea (ROK) on Thursday recognized three officers of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) for their efforts in protecting the country’s maritime natural resources.

In an awarding ceremony at the PCG National Headquarters in Port Area, Manila, the Korean World Green International Award Committee (KWGIAC) bestowed the “Top Excellence Award” to PCG Deputy Commandant for Operations, Vice Admiral Rolando Punzalan Jr. and PCG Deputy Commandant for Administration, Vice Admiral Allan Victor Dela Vega.

In addition, PCG District Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Commander, Captain Christopher Auro, received the “Excellence Award.”

The ceremony was led by KWGIAC Chair Park Kwang Young and World Green Award Committee Special Advisor in the Philippines, Auxiliary Rear Admiral Oscar Kyungsun Oh.

In his speech, Punzalan thanked the KWGIAC for their recognition of the efforts made by the PCG and its personnel towards protecting maritime resources.

“This recognition does not only reflect my contributions but also represents the shared commitment of the PCG in fulfilling our duty to protect the marine environment,” he said.

During the event, the PCG also presented a plaque and a certificate of appreciation to Park and Oh for their visit. (PNA)