Philippine Army Honors Fallen Hero SSgt. Windel Sabuyas Jr. with Posthumous Medal
In a solemn ceremony filled with reverence and respect, the Philippine Army has formally recognized the extraordinary bravery of a soldier who sacrificed his life to save others during a devastating maritime disaster earlier this year.
Ceremony at Camp General Arturo Enrile
Major General Leonardo Peña, commander of the 11th Infantry "Alakdan" Division and Joint Task Force Orion, presided over the emotional tribute to Staff Sergeant Windel Sabuyas Jr. of the 21st Infantry Battalion. The ceremony took place on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at Camp General Arturo Enrile in Barangay Malagutay, Zamboanga City.
During the proceedings, General Peña presented the Philippine Flag and conferred the posthumous Bronze Cross Medal to Jenelyn, the grieving widow of Staff Sergeant Sabuyas. This prestigious military decoration honors acts of heroism involving risk of life and is awarded to personnel who distinguish themselves by extraordinary bravery not involving direct conflict with an enemy.
The Tragic Incident
Staff Sergeant Sabuyas demonstrated exceptional courage during the MV Trisha Kerstin 3 maritime tragedy that occurred on January 26, 2026. The vessel sank approximately 2.75 nautical miles northeast of Baluk-Baluk Island, Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan, while en route from Zamboanga City to Jolo, Sulu.
Witness accounts confirm that Sabuyas was actively assisting civilians during the disaster, embodying the core values of valor, discipline, and compassion that define the Alakdan Troopers. He was returning to duty alongside other soldiers following a holiday break when the tragedy struck.
Recovery and Final Honors
The remains of Staff Sergeant Sabuyas were recovered from the shipwreck during an underwater operation conducted by technical divers of the Philippine Coast Guard on Saturday, February 14. His body now lies at Camp Enrile for vigil honors, allowing family members, fellow soldiers, and the public to pay their final respects.
Authorities have announced that departure and arrival honors will be rendered during the transfer of his remains to Lasam, Cagayan, where full military funeral honors will commemorate his distinguished service to the nation.
Lasting Legacy of Sacrifice
In an official statement released on Sunday, February 15, the 11th Infantry Division emphasized the enduring impact of Sabuyas' heroism: "Though gone, SSg. Sabuyas' heroism continues to inspire the Philippine Army, his family, and the nation, leaving a lasting legacy of sacrifice and devotion to duty."
The division further noted that his selfless actions during the maritime disaster exemplify the highest ideals of military service and will be remembered as a testament to the courage and compassion of Filipino soldiers in times of crisis.
