LUNA, La Union (PIA) — The La Union Police Provincial Office (LUPPO) commemorated the 10th anniversary of the tragic loss of the 44 members of the Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) on January 25 at Luna Memorial Park.
The solemn ceremony featured flower offerings, candle lighting, and prayers in honor of the fallen heroes.
The event, held as part of the National Day of Remembrance under Presidential Proclamation No. 164, paid tribute to the SAF 44 who lost their lives during an anti-terrorist operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao, in 2015.
This year’s theme, “Courage Beyond Measure: Remembering the Sacrifice of the SAF 44 for Peace,” served as a reminder of the courage and dedication required in the service of the country.
In his message, LUPPO Provincial Director Colonel Heryl Bruno emphasized the profound impact of the SAF 44’s heroism on the nation’s collective consciousness.
“We can never bring back the lives our SAF troopers have given, but their sacrifice challenges us to remain unwavering in our duty to protect and serve the nation,” Bruno stated.
Bruno urged police officers to honor the legacy of the SAF 44 by embodying their values of courage, integrity, and dedication in their daily duties.
He also called on all police units to promote awareness of the SAF 44’s sacrifices to inspire unity and patriotism among communities.
Support for families of fallen heroes
One of the highlights of the ceremony was the heartfelt message from Rajiv Nacionales, father of the late PO3 Omar Nacionales, who expressed gratitude to the provincial government and the police force for keeping his son’s memory alive.
“We are thankful for the continued recognition of our son’s heroism. These commemorations remind us that his bravery and sacrifice were not in vain. It comforts us to know that his memory inspires others,” Nacionales said.
The Nacionales family, along with other relatives of the SAF 44, continues to receive support from government programs that aim to uphold the dignity of their loved ones’ sacrifices.
These initiatives include financial aid, livelihood support, and mental health services to help families cope with their loss.
Leadership and community participation
The ceremony was attended by local officials, including Luna Vice Mayor Romeo Resurreccion, as well as other dignitaries and community leaders.
They joined the families of the SAF 44 in honoring the fallen heroes and pledged their support for initiatives that promote peace, justice, and security.
Vice Mayor Resurreccion highlighted the importance of fostering resilience and unity in the community, drawing inspiration from the courage and selflessness of the SAF troopers.
“This commemoration is not only a tribute to the past but also a call to action for all of us to work together in building a peaceful and secure future,” Resurrection said.
Developmental impact and legacy
In line with the SAF 44’s legacy, the LUPPO reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing community engagement and strengthening peacekeeping programs across the province.
Initiatives include heightened public awareness campaigns on security and counter-terrorism, community safety training, and the integration of the SAF 44’s values into police training modules.
The ceremony concluded with a renewed commitment from the police force and community leaders to uphold the values exemplified by the SAF 44.
The event underscored the need for collaboration between law enforcement and local communities to create a safer, more harmonious society.
Through these efforts, the memory of the SAF 44 lives on—not just as a symbol of courage, but as an enduring inspiration to pursue peace, justice, and progress for the nation. (AMB/KJCR, PIA La Union)
