1LT JAYWARDENE G. HONTORIA PN(M)

The leadership and gallantry in combat of 1LT Hontoria PN(M), Officer-In-Charge of the 65th Force Recon Company were rightfully recognized with the conferment of the Distinguished Navy Cross—one of the highest military decorations awarded by the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

1LT Hontoria spearheaded his unit during a high-risk Maritime Pursuit Operation against approximately 40 armed lawless elements (ALEs) under a rogue commander aboard 12 motorized bancas. The operation culminated in a decisive armed engagement in the vicinity waters of Bongo Island, Parang, Maguindanao del Norte last 18 October 2024. His leadership and tactical acumen directly resulted in the neutralization of multiple hostile elements and the recovery of high-powered firearms and war materiel of significant intelligence value.

Also awarded the Distinguished Navy Cross were LTCOL JOHN A DELA CRUZ PN(M), Commanding Officer, Marine Battalion Landing Team-2 (MBLT-2) and TSgt Junard D. Serio PN(M), Boat Captain, Patrol Riverine Crafts, Assault Boat Task Unit-1.

The Distinguished Navy Cross is a prestigious combat award granted to personnel of the Philippine Navy and Marine Corps for acts of conspicuous courage and heroism in naval or amphibious operations. It stands as a testament to the unwavering readiness, valor, and commitment of the Philippine Marine Corps in safeguarding the nation’s maritime domain and territorial integrity.

The awards were personally conferred by the Flag Officer-in-Command, Philippine Navy, Vice Admiral JOSE MA AMBROSIO Q EZPELETA PN, during his first official unit visit to Headquarters 1st Marine Brigade in Camp Iranun, Barira, Maguindanao del Norte on 06 April 2025.

"Indeed, the Marines remain the nation’s most ready force—on land and at sea."

Your FRG Family is very proud of you!

Arruugaah!