MANILA, 20 April 2004 — The United States has awarded Philippine military chief Gen. Narciso Abaya the distinguished Legion of Merit medal for his role in fighting international terrorism and contributing greatly to the regional security in Southeast Asia, local officials said yesterday. Gen. Richard B. Myers, chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, presented the award last week in Washington, D.C., during Abaya’s visit, Filipino military spokesman Lt. Col. Daniel Lucero said. The US said Abaya distinguished himself by sustained visionary leadership.
