 Despite the rescue attempts and efforts by Bautista to defend his position using his service pistol, he was overwhelmed by moro rebels and killed before rescue forces could reach him.Philippine Air Force TSgt Nonito Calizo and Airman Benjamin Lojo were the first rescuers to arrive at scene and secure Bautista's body, and were decorated for retrieving Bautista's body.For his "uncommon bravery and tenacity in the face of overwhelming odds," the Armed Forces of the Philippines, under General Order 519, posthumously awarded Bautista the Distinguished Conduct Star on April 29, 1974.