Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Feb 17, 2022): JTF-Sulu and MNLF Commemorate Pata Island Incident
4th Civil Relations Group
JTF-SULU and MNLF COMMEMORATE PATA ISLAND INCIDENT
Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista, Jolo, Sulu – “This commemoration symbolizes unity and understanding between the AFP and the MNLF,” says Brigadier General Antonio Bautista, Jr., acting commander of the Army’s 11th Infantry Division (11ID) and Joint Task Force Sulu (JTF-Sulu), during the 41st commemoration of the Pata Island incident at Brgy Likud, Pata town, February 12.
Commanders from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) covering the area headed by Brigadier General Bautista and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) members led by Mr Khadafy Kahal offered wreath at the memorial marker where the remorseful incident transpired that claimed lives of the 31st Infantry Battalion soldiers and numerous civilian populace.
The surrounding was filled with solemnity, honor, and respect when the 21-gun salute was fired and the bugle “taps” was sounded.
To recall, the Pata Island incident that happened on February 12, 1981, is considered the bloodiest and the biggest number of casualties ever incurred by the AFP in a single incident since the start of the conflict in Mindanao.
Mr Khadafy Kahal during the formal talks said that the MNLF leadership and its members were delighted with the presence of the military in the area to remember the darkest history of the past that served as a lesson for both parties to embrace peace.
He further said that there is no joy in killing each other and that the Pata incident should remind everyone to be open and understanding with each other, despite differences in belief and diversity in culture.
Meanwhile, Brigadier General Bautista expressed his gratitude to the 4th Marine Battalion Landing Team (MBLT), who initiated and prepared everything for the activity.
He also tendered his appreciation to the residents of Pata, particularly the MNLF leaders and its members, for the warm welcome and accommodations accorded to all soldiers who sailed from the mainland Sulu who witnessed the momentous event.
Brigadier General Bautista said that the event symbolizes unity and understanding in his message.
He further said that, there is no need to keep the past wounds, for those who sacrificed their lives were all brothers and sisters under one national flag.
“Today’s gathering is a symbol of cooperation and understanding. We must set aside the wounds of the past. Instead, let us use them as a guide and basis for building a healthy connection based on mutual respect,” Brigadier General Bautista said.
“Let us continue to work hard to fulfill our duties and responsibilities to help each other for the benefit of our fellow Filipinos,” adds Brigadier General Bautista.”
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=313700284118069&set=a.226169562871142
https://www.facebook.com/westmincomafp2021/?ref=page_internal
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.