Former IMT head gets RP legion of honor award

MANILA, Philippines - The former head of the Malaysian-led International Monitoring Team (IMT) received the Philippine Legion of Honor award for his role in peace efforts between government and secessionist rebels. A statement on the Department of Foreign Affairs website early Wednesday said Maj. Gen. Datuk Mat Yasin bin Mat Daud received the award last July 10. Philippine Ambassador to Malaysia Victoriano Lecaros pinned the medallion on him at a ceremony held at the Philippine Embassy in Kuala Lumpur last July 10. Datuk Mat Yasin was conferred the presidential award in recognition of his "valuable and meritorious contribution" as Head of Mission of the IMT from Sept. 16, 2007 to June 16, 2008. The IMT monitors implementation of ceasefire agreement between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to give way to peace talks, which has been done since 1997. Also present at the awarding was Colonel Jet Velarmino, Philippine Defense and Armed Forces Attaché to Malaysia. Established in 1947, the Philippine Legion of Honor is conferred in recognition of valuable and meritorious services rendered by Filipino or foreign citizens in relation to Philippines military affairs. It also recognizes outstanding public service that has benefited the country, particularly in the preservation of the honor of the country and in nation building. - GMANews.TV