The TaRSIER117, the Operations and Warning Division of Bohol’s Provincial
Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office, has been honored as the Armed
Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Affiliated Reserve Unit of the Year.
The award was given last Sept. 30, during the culmination ceremony of the 44th
National Reservist Week (NRW) held at Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo in Quezon
City.
The TaRSIER117, which stands for Telephone and Radio System Integrated
Emergency Response, is a rescue unit that provides emergency response and
disaster management services in Bohol.
Tarsier was established in 2009 by Governor Edgar Chatto, with then former
provincial administrator Ae Damalerio appointed as chief of operations, and it has
since been involved in various rescue and relief operations in the province and
beyond.
The award recognizes the outstanding performance and contributions of the
TaRSIER117 in the AFP’s mission and mandate, especially during the COVID-19
pandemic. The TaRSIER117 has been instrumental in implementing health
protocols, conducting contact tracing, transporting patients, distributing relief goods,
and assisting in vaccination programs.
National Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, along with General Romeo Brawner,
AFP Chief of Staff, presented the award to Jose Aleto Requeron, the rescue unit’s
chief.
Requeron expressed his gratitude to the AFP and the Provincial Government of
Bohol for their support and recognition. He also dedicated the award to his fellow
rescuers who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.
The Provincial Government of Bohol prides itself in its continued commitment to
inclusive social services through its preparedness and response programs.
Governor Aris Aumentado congratulated the TaRSIER117 for bringing honor to
Bohol and for exemplifying the spirit of volunteerism and service.
He also urged other local government units to emulate the TaRSIER117 model and
invest in disaster risk reduction and management initiatives.