PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil led the Special Action Force (SAF) Memorial Day 2024 observance at Fort Sto. Domingo in Sta. Rosa City, Laguna.
“No words or ceremony can bring back their lives, but we stand united in prayer and solidarity with you,” Marbil said in his remarks.
“Their sacrifice is a testament to their enduring legacy and a symbol of the nation’s pride,” he added.
The event was meant to pay tribute and commemorate the heroism and courage of the SAF operatives who rendered the last measure of service to the country.
“It is always an honor and a pride to die in battle than to live kneeling,” Marbil stressed.
“May the force be with you!” he said.
At least 44 SAF members were killed in an encounter with suspected terrorists in Mamasapano, Maguindanao on Jan. 25, 2015 in what was described as the “highest fatalities of government forces in a single peace time operation.”