[1] Sergeant Diokno was part of the military operation led by Lieutenant Colonel Noel S. Buan that neutralized Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Hamsiraji Marusi Sali on 8 April 2004.

Basilan Province- 4 August 2004 "For acts of conspicuous courage, gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty during a one hour and a half-encounter against undetermined number of Abu Sayyaff terrorists under Commander HAMSIRAJI SALI at Barangay Makiri in Lantawan, Basilan Province on 08 April 2004.

On or about 081120 April 2004, STAFF SERGEANT DIOKNO JR together with LTC BUAN and the rest of the team arrived in the area where they were supposed to meet SALI and his group.

At the scene of the encounter, the team recovered seven neutralized terrorists, including the notorious Sali brothers, six caliber 5.56 mm M16 rifles, two 40mm grenade launchers, one 12-gauge shotgun, three rounds of ammunition for 40mm grenade launcher, hundreds of rounds of ammunition for M16 rifle, seven bandoleers, four combat packs with personal effects and subversive documents.

By these gallant deeds, STAFF SERGEANT DIOKNO JR distinguished himself in combat, in keeping with the finest traditions of Filipino soldiery.