Actor Gerald Anderson was awarded the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Auxiliary Search and Rescue Medal and Ribbon. The commendation ceremony took place on Thursday, August 8. Anderson, who serves as a PCG auxiliary commander, was honored for his heroic efforts during the onslaught of Typhoon ‘Carina.’
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Gerald Anderson expressed his gratitude to the PCG but also humbly shared the honor with other rescuers in the operation.
“Thankful ako sa Coast Guard na they recognized yung efforts ko, but I share this award with other rescuers, sa other volunteers, lahat ng nag-donate para makatulong din sa iba,” he said in an interview. “What thing I said na sana my actions na nakita sa Facebook will inspire others to also help.”
While Gerald Anderson recognizes the risk of his actions, he revealed that his training in water search and rescue (WASAR) was a big help during the rescue. “Not necessarily kailangan nila gawin yun, ako kasi bata pa lang nag-swimming na ako. I’ve undergone WASAR training—water search and rescue—it’s not something I’m encouraging people to do, but there’s always different ways [to help].”
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PCG spokesperson and CG Rear Admiral Armando Balilo said that Gerald Anderson is an active partner of the command. The actor is especially present during humanitarian and disaster response operations.
“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,” Balilo said.
“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,” the admiral added.
Gerald Anderson revealed that he plans to form a dedicated search and rescue team together with the PCG. He aims for the team to be ready during calamities and will include other celebrities who are willing to help.
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