PNP commemorates SAF 44 on 7th anniversary of Mamasapano clash

The Philippine National Police on Tuesday observed the national day of remembrance for the 44 members of its Special Action Force (SAF) who died in battle on January 25, 2015 in Mamasapano, Maguindanao.

During a ceremony at SAF Headquarters in Camp Bagong Diwa, SAF director Police Major General Felipe Natividad honored the fallen SAF members and acknowledged their sacrifice for the country.

“The event we commemorate today, the Day of National Remembrance for the SAF 44, is fitting for heroes, though it will never be enough to commensurate the ultimate sacrifice they have offered for the sake of our country,” he said.

“Forever, through this event, we will celebrate their life and heroism as we hope that their devotion to duty and commitment to democracy will inspire through generations to come,” he added.

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra, the guest speaker of the ceremony, recognized the special force members' heroism.

“Today, we remember the 44 who gave their lives so that we may continually be blessed with peace and liberty in this country,” he said.

“May the heroism of the SAF44 who gave their lives in the marchland of Mamasapano give birth to a new heroism in us all,” he added.

In a video message, Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson Police Brigadier General Roderick Alba said the SAF left a legacy to the police organization.

“They reminded us of that very purpose why we  chose to be law enforcers. We know the risks. We learned  to embrace every threat that is attached to our mission,” he said.

“We draw our inspiration sa mga bayani tulad ng SAF 44 [from heroes such as the SAF 44]. Henerasyon man ang lumipas [Generations may pass] but their legacy lives on,” he added.

Sixty-seven people, including five civilians, died that day. The SAF commandos were part of a special mission to serve arrest warrants for ranking international terrorist Malaysian bomber Zulkifli Bin Hir alias Marwan, and were ambushed by members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), and local armed groups. — BM, GMA News