MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos has urged Filipinos to honor the memory of the 44 Special Action Force (SAF) commandos, who sacrificed their lives in Mamasapano, Maguindanao del Sur nine years ago, by striving for a peaceful society and standing up against terrorists and those who “trespass” on the country’s territory.
Marcos said that while the gallantry of the fallen commandos could not be fully captured by any memorial and extolled by words, Filipinos can pay homage to them by working tirelessly to realize their dreams for their families, children, comrades and the people.
“It is now up to us, who lived and benefitted from their full measure of devotion to duty, to build a kinder and gentler society, wherein those they have left behind can live in peace and prosperity,” Marcos said during the observance of the Day of National Remembrance of the Heroic Sacrifice of the SAF 44 at the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) in Silang, Cavite yesterday.
“That is the mission they have left us to pursue when they did not return from their last patrol.” he added.
Former Maj. Gen. Getulio Napenas Jr., who was SAF director during the Mamasapano operation, lamented that the commandos have yet to receive justice as no charges were filed against those involved in the killing.
Vice President Sara Duterte said Filipinos should carry “the indelible acts of bravery” of the SAF44, noting it serves as a true benchmark of heroism for every one to emulate.
“Their enduring legacy is one characterized by unparalleled dedication, selflessness, and an unwavering love for our cherished nation and its people. We are forever indebted to these heroes, who made the ultimate sacrifice in pursuit of a brighter future,” Duterte said.
Marcos said lessons could be drawn from the commandos’ final hours, including putting the nation before one’s self, displaying courage under fire, resolving to forge ahead and never giving up.
“We would also be disrespecting their memory if we give quarters to those who terrorize our people. We would be devaluing their valor if we cede our territory to those who would trespass upon it,” he said.
The commandos were killed in a lopsided encounter against extremist and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) fighters in Mamasapano on Jan. 25, 2015.
Those who managed to enter the MILF territory to arrest wanted terrorists were outnumbered during the 12-hour firefight, which officials blamed on the lack of coordination between government troops and the Muslim secessionst group.
The government and the MILF signed a landmark peace agreement in 2014.
Marcos urged colleagues of the fallen police commandos, whom he called “Brave 44,” to honor their memory by never letting down the flag that they fought for, and by becoming worthy stewards of their devotion to duty, fidelity to the oath and love of country.
“Be the patriots and professionals who are driven by the same fearlessness and fortitude that the SAF 44 had shown,” he said.
Marcos said the “defiant” stand of the SAF 44 is a “clarion call for unity and action against any challenge.” He said their reverence should be accompanied by a deeper reflection so one can summon the fight to build a better future for the nation.
The President expressed hope the loved ones of the SAF 44 would find comfort in the gratefulness of the nation.
“We remember their heroism and honor the sacrifice that they have made. It is a debt that we will never be able to fully pay, no matter how we try,” Marcos said.
Meanwhile, the families of the SAF commandos urged the public to always remember the heroism and sacrifice of their loved ones by protecting the country from security threats.
Raechelle June Sumbilla, widow of Senior Police Officer 2 John Lloyd Sumbilla, urged Filipinos to always remember the selflessness of the commandos who gave up their life for the nation.
Sumbilla was one of the 44 SAF commandos who perished in the Mamasapano operation.
“May their gallantry inspire us all to be better, to do better and to build a future worthy of their sacrifice,” Sumbilla said in a speech delivered during the event at the PNPA.
She said it is their duty to ensure that the sacrifices of their loved ones will not be forgotten.
“Let us not only mourn for our loss, but let us celebrate the heroism and victory that defined them,” she said.
Sumbilla never saw his only daughter, who was born more than three months after he and his 43 colleagues were killed in Mamasapano.
The police operation dubbed “Oplan Exodus” also resulted in the death of wanted Malaysian terrorist and bomb expert Zulkifli bin Hir, alias Marwan.
Sumbilla said she knew the risks of her husband’s job as a police officer, but nothing prepared her when she was informed of his death.
“The pain was unimaginable and the void he left behind seemed impossible to fill,” she said.
Living without her husband has been a struggle, but she said she found solace in the strength and unity shown by the bereaved families of the SAF 44.
Lt. Col. Raymund Train, operator of Oplan Exodus, called on the public to also not forget the officers who survived the Mamasapano massacre, and who are now assigned in other police units.
Philippine National Police chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. said these officers continue to inspire the police force and the heroism of the commandos will never be forgotten.
SAF chief Maj. Gen. Bernard Banac gave assurance that the troopers’ families have received all the benefits due them. – Emmanuel Tupas, Ric Sapnu