A modern day hero serves as an inspiration and an example of good deeds.

In Iloilo City, another individual emerged on one ordinary day with an extraordinary feat.

Eduardo Chan Alavanzas, Jr. is just one of the several traffic enforcers under the Public Safety and Transportation and Management Office (PSTMO) of the Iloilo City Government.

He may be just one of the many PSTMO employees but he came out a “hero” in everyone’s eyes.

According to Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas, Alavanzas, on Feb. 2, stepped up and made his day extraordinary by saving the life of a child having a convulsion attack.

“Seeing the mother struggling after their tricycle broke down, he volunteered to bring them to the hospital using his motorcycle,” he said.

Treñas acknowledged this good deed and bestowed on Alavanzas a special citation, certificate of recognition, and cash incentive to recognize his bravery.

“He is only one of the many who wakes up every day and works very hard to create a safer and better living environment for the community,” he said.

Meanwhile, Alavanzas said he did not expect that the city government here will recognize his actions; nonetheless, he is thankful for the citation given to him.

“Nalipay man ako nga nakita ko si Mayor (Treñas) nga atubangay kag si Boss Jeck (Conlu). Salamat sa certification. Daku na ni bulig para sa akon (I am happy that I was able to see Mayor Treñas face-to-face and our boss Jeck Conlu. Thank you for the certification. This is a big help for me),” he said.

On one hand, Jeck Conlu, PSMTO head, said that Alavanzas’ deed and the recognition given by the city’s top local chief executive have boosted the morale of his staff in their office.

“Indi lamang ang mga regular nga tasking ang ginaubra nila; kung kinahanglan nga magresponde sila sa emerhensya, magaresponde na sila (They are not only doing their regular tasking; if they need to respond to emergencies, they will do so),” he said.

Also, Treñas said that he is hoping that these modern-day heroes, like Alavanzas, serve as inspiration for others.

“To also find the strength to persevere and help our fellows beyond our job and without hesitation,” he added.JSC/LTP/PIA6 Iloilo