BAGUIO CITY (PIA) — The Police Regional Office – Cordillera led commemoration of the gallantry of the 44 Special Action Force troopers who were killed in a counterterrorism operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao in 2015.
PRO-Cor Regional Director PBGen. Mafelino Bazar, PNP Area Police Command – North Luzon Deputy Commander PMGen. Oliver Enmodias, with Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, the Manor Alternate General Manager Christine Marie Cua, and Janet Carap representing the families of the SAF 44, held a wreath laying ceremony followed by the military honors during the Day of National Remembrance for the SAF 44 at the SAF Memorial at the Manor in Camp John Hay in Baguio City on Wednesday, January 25, 2023.
PNP Chief General Rodolfo Azurin, in a message read by Enmodias, stressed that the PNP will continue to honor the memory and supreme sacrifice of the SAF 44. He said the PNP will ensure that the legacy of the SAF 44 lives on through their actions and dedication to the service.
“Our fallen heroes are true representatives of the character of a nation that values patriotism and honor. The gallantry of SAF 44 will never be forgotten for they have left an indelible mark in the hearts and minds of the nation,” Azurin stated.
“We must also remember that the legacy of heroism is not just a memory, but an inspiration for future generations of police officers to continue to serve with the valor and integrity. The legacy that we must strive to uphold. Their actions have shaped the PNP into what it is today and that their legacy is something that we must all take great pride in,” he added.
Mayor Magalong also called on Filipinos to honor the memory of the SAF heroes recommitting themselves to building a safe, more just, and peaceful society.
“Let us strive to make their sacrifice meaningful by working towards a future where our people can truly prosper. The road to peace and security is a long one and it requires the commitment and cooperation of everyone,” he said.
Magalong who led PNP Board of Inquiry that probed the case, expressed disappointment as justice remains elusive for the 44 SAF troopers who were killed in a counterterrorism operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao in 2015.
“It has been eight years since that fateful day in Mamasapano, and yet, justice for the SAF 44 remains elusive. I am deeply disappointed by the lack of progress in bringing those responsible to justice,” Magalong said.
“Their sacrifice demands nothing less. The families of the SAF 44, as well as the entire nation deserve closure and accountability for what happened on that tragic day,” he stressed.
Magalong called on all those in positions of power and influence to put aside their political considerations and do everything in their power to bring justice to these men, 14 of them were Cordillerans. (JDP/RMC- PIA CAR)
