Village chief Mùa A Thi reports on the local situation with Deputy Prime Minister Phạm Hồng Hà, who is inspecting the search and rescue operations in Điện Biên Province on August 2. — VNA/VNS Photo Xuân Tư

HÀ NỘI — Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính has sent a letter of commendation to Mùa A Thi, a 26-year-old village chief in the northern province of Điện Biên, for his bravery and swift actions in rescuing his villagers during a devastating flash flood.

According to the letter, heavy rain in the early morning of August 1 triggered a sudden flash flood and landslides in Háng Pu Xi Village, Xa Dung Commune, Điện Biên Province. Torrents of water and debris swept through the area, putting lives at serious risk.

In the face of danger, Thi acted without hesitation. Despite the darkness and raging floodwaters, he alerted villagers, personally helped elderly people and children evacuate, and guided others to move to a safe place.

His quick thinking and courageous leadership helped save 90 residents of Háng Pu Xi from what could have been a tragic disaster.

PM Chính praised Thi's extraordinary bravery, clear-headed decisions, and deep sense of responsibility. He asked the chairperson of the Điện Biên Provincial People's Committee and the Ministry of Home Affairs to urgently consider and propose a commendation for Thi in line with regulations.

Điện Biên Department of Home Affairs is completing the necessary procedures to award an official Certificate of Merit to the young village chief.

On behalf of the Government, the PM expressed his admiration for the young village chief, describing him as a shining example of the spirit of unity, compassion, and dedication to the people.

He called on all public servants, especially those working at the grassroots level, to learn from Thi’s selfless commitment to protecting the community.

The PM also urged the media to spread such inspiring stories, especially those involving acts of courage during natural disasters.

In his message, PM Chính called on every citizen to remain alert, develop disaster response skills, and support one another in times of crisis. He also asked ministries, local authorities, and communities to strengthen civil defence, promote public awareness, and reward individuals who make outstanding contributions to disaster prevention and response. — VNA/VNS