Bicol police remembers bravery, heroism of SAF 44

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 25, 2022): Bicol police remembers bravery, heroism of SAF 44 (By Connie Calipay)

HONORING HEROES. The Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO5) on Tuesday (Jan. 25, 2022) remembered the heroism of the 44 Special Action Forces (SAF) personnel who were killed in an anti-terrorist operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao in 2015. The Bicol police held a wreath-laying ceremony and Holy Mass to honor the SAF heroes in Camp Simeon Ola in Legazpi City. (Image courtesy of PRO5)

The Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO 5) on Tuesday remembered the heroism of the 44 Special Action Forces (SAF) personnel who were killed in an anti-terrorist operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao seven years ago, saying their death was a strong manifestation that police officers are always ready to carry out their mission despite the odds and difficulties along the way.

Lt. Gen. Ferdinand Divina, chief of the Area Police Command-Southern Luzon, who was the guest speaker during the PRO5's observance of the National Day of Remembrance at Camp Simeon Ola here, delivered the message of Philippine National Police Chief, Gen. Dionardo Carlos.

He said putting one's life at risk in order to protect freedom is an act of valor since it is done without expecting any payback.

"Today, we pause to remember all those who made the ultimate sacrifice for this nation especially the 44 fallen brave SAF commandos. This commemoration is the day where we ought to reflect for their unselfish deeds for our country which symbolizes the heart of a true warrior," Divina said.

He also said the fallen lawmen had to sacrifice their lives just so the people could live in freedom in the safety of their homes.

"The tragic loss of SAF 44 is a lesson learned we must not forget. Their lives are irreplaceable. Like generations of warrior heroes before them, our fallen SAF 44 gave everything they had, not for glory, nor for any gratitude, but for something greater than themselves," he added.

Addressing the families of SAF 44, Divina expressed deep sorrow and said the PNP will continuously pray for the souls of their kin and be thankful for their noble deeds.

"May the memories of the Gallant 44 serve as constant inspiration to strengthen our faith in God and continue our sworn duty to protect the public from lawless elements, criminal acts, terrorism, and anti-illegal drugs that ruin the future of our children," Divina said.

Maj. Bon Billy Timuat, PRO5 assistant chief for operations division, and classmate of three of the slain SAF troops reminisced the old times with them.

"It was seven years ago when you made the ultimate sacrifice, but you are true heroes that will never be forgotten. Special deeds of men like you will not just fade away," Timuat said as he remembered Senior Inspectors Max Jim Tria, Sr., Getnad Tabdi and John Garry Erana, his classmates in the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Kaisang-Bisig Class of 2009.

The PRO5 held a wreath-laying ceremony and Holy Mass and rendered a 21-gun salute for the SAF heroes.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166269