by Fides Abad (Archives Head)

Alumnus Sgt. Mauro Lorenzo U. Tongco (Batch 2006) was awarded the Military Merit Medal for meritorious and valuable services rendered during the conduct of Relief Operations and Clean-up Drive, dubbed “Ateneo Task Force Ondoy,” from 27 September – 01 October  2009. The medal is normally awarded to military personnel for distinguished service.

The award mentions that he “demonstrated outstanding humanitarian endeavor in helping the Task Force…” and exhibited “selfless and dedicated service…and set aside personal comfort … to contribute hours of volunteer work”.

Bang (as he is fondly called) will finish his Development Studies in Ateneo (Batch 2010) with the successful defense of his thesis on “Social Risk Management for Phil. WWII Veterans.” While in college, he was deputy commander of the ROTC Program and core lecturer of student module on Introduction to Ateneo Culture and Tradition. He is the youngest son of Ruby Tongco, former XS Personnel Officer.