LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—Pangasinenses paid tribute to the bravery and heroism of Pfc. Eddie C. Cardona Jr., who recently died in a clash with members of the Maute terror group in embattled Marawi City.
Cardona was among the 13 Marines who were killed during a 16-hour firefight against the Maute group in Barangay Lilod Madaya. He was posthumously awarded the Military Merit medal by President Rodrigo Duterte on June 12.
In an official statement, Gov. Amado “Pogi” I. Espino III noted: “There is no greater love than to offer one’s life for others and for his country… Surely, the fallen soldier’s noble deeds will not be forgotten, as the whole nation will forever remain grateful for his ultimate sacrifice.
To mourn Cardona and other Filipinos who fought and died in Marawi, the provincial government hoisted the Philippine flag at half mast at the Capitol Plaza.
Espino also expressed his deepest condolences to the family of Cardona, who hails from Brgy. Goyoden, Santiago Island in Bolinao town.
The 28-year-old Cardona finished his Criminology course at the Philippine College of Criminology in Manila, and joined the Marines in 2012.
Reports said Cardona volunteered to join the troops in the fateful mission despite not being picked to fight the terrorists in Marawi.
