Nine years ago, 44 brave soldiers from the Special Action Force (SAF) gave their lives in a battle in Mamasapano, Maguindanao. Their sacrifice still reminds us of how important it is for our country to stay united, says Vice President Sara Duterte.
On the National Day of Remembrance for the SAF 44, Duterte shared a video message honoring their bravery. She said that the tragic loss should teach us how to work together, face challenges, and create a safer future for all Filipinos.
In January 2015, 44 elite SAF commandos were killed in a dangerous operation against terrorists. They were fighting fighters from the MILF and other groups. One of the terrorists, Zulkifli bin Hir (alias Marwan), was killed in the operation, and Basit Usman, another terrorist, was later captured and killed in May of the same year.
In 2017, President Rodrigo Duterte declared January 25 as the National Day of Remembrance for the SAF 44, to honor their memory.
Vice President Sara Duterte added that as we remember these brave men, we should also think about the dangers faced by those in the armed forces and law enforcement who keep us safe.
In December, two commanders from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Abubakar Guiaman and Mohammad Ali Tambako, were convicted for the deaths of the SAF 44. They were found guilty of 35 counts of homicide, though this charge was less serious than murder. The Department of Justice called this a victory for justice.
However, Getulio Napeñas Jr., the former SAF chief, still believes that justice is not fully served, as many responsible people have not been charged yet.
This day reminds us that we must stay united as a country to protect each other and honor the brave heroes who sacrifice their lives for our safety.
