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What is the Philippine Medal of Valor?

The Medal of Valor is the highest military award given by the Philippines. It was created in 1935 to honor soldiers who show extreme courage in battle. To earn this medal, a soldier must do something heroic that is far beyond their normal duty. It represents the greatest sacrifice a person can make to protect their country.

Can living soldiers receive this medal?

Yes, living soldiers can receive this medal if they survive their brave actions. However, many heroes earn it while giving their lives to save their teammates in combat. Because the act must be so dangerous, many recipients are honored after they have passed away. Their stories of bravery are remembered by the whole nation.

What does the medal look like?

The medal is shaped like a disc with a beautiful design. It features a golden sea lion resting on top of a cross and two crossed swords. These symbols represent strength and the proud history of the Philippine military. It is a very special piece of metal that shows the wearer is a true hero.

Who awards the Medal of Valor?

The President of the Philippines gives this award to the hero. If the soldier has passed away, the President presents it to their family members instead. This ceremony shows that the highest leader in the country respects the soldier's work. It is considered a very important and serious event.

Do winners receive any special benefits?

Yes, the country takes care of the people who earn this award. The government gives the hero or their family a special monthly allowance for the rest of their lives. Also, children of the medal winners can receive scholarships to help pay for their school. This is one way the nation says thank you for their big sacrifice.

What is the Philippine Medal of Valor?

The Medal of Valor is the highest military award given by the Philippines. It was created in 1935 to honor soldiers who show extreme courage in battle. To earn this medal, a soldier must do something heroic that is far beyond their normal duty. It represents the greatest sacrifice a person can make to protect their country.

Can living soldiers receive this medal?

Yes, living soldiers can receive this medal if they survive their brave actions. However, many heroes earn it while giving their lives to save their teammates in combat. Because the act must be so dangerous, many recipients are honored after they have passed away. Their stories of bravery are remembered by the whole nation.

What does the medal look like?

The medal is shaped like a disc with a beautiful design. It features a golden sea lion resting on top of a cross and two crossed swords. These symbols represent strength and the proud history of the Philippine military. It is a very special piece of metal that shows the wearer is a true hero.

Who awards the Medal of Valor?

The President of the Philippines gives this award to the hero. If the soldier has passed away, the President presents it to their family members instead. This ceremony shows that the highest leader in the country respects the soldier's work. It is considered a very important and serious event.

Do winners receive any special benefits?

Yes, the country takes care of the people who earn this award. The government gives the hero or their family a special monthly allowance for the rest of their lives. Also, children of the medal winners can receive scholarships to help pay for their school. This is one way the nation says thank you for their big sacrifice.

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Valor decoration

Medal of Valor

The Medal of Valor is the highest military award in the Philippines for extreme bravery in combat.

Philippines Established 1935 All servicesPrecedence: 1st in precedence among military decorations

Medals & Awards

Awarded For

Awarded for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty in action against an enemy.

Eligibility

Members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and allied forces serving alongside them.

Branch

All services

Precedence

1st in precedence among military decorations

Medal of Valor, Valor decoration, Philippines medal

History

The Medal of Valor was created in 1935 under the National Defense Act to honor supreme acts of bravery in the Philippine military. It drew inspiration from older constabulary honors and the American Medal of Honor. The medal represents the ultimate sacrifice a service member can make to protect their unit and homeland.

Over the decades, the medal has been earned by heroes fighting in World War II, communist insurgencies, and urban battles like the Siege of Marawi. Filipino law guarantees special benefits, monthly stipends, and educational aid to the families of recipients.