Cops to honor SAF 44 via commemorative cycle ride

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is set to hold a commemorative bike ride to honor the heroism and “extraordinary gallantry” of the 44 Special Action Force (SAF) commandos, who were killed in an anti-terror operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao in 2015.

Dubbed as “The Commemoration Ride for the Gallant SAF 44,” the PNP said on Friday that the activity, in partnership with the National Bikers Organization, will be held on Sunday, January 28, at 4 a.m. with Luneta Park in Manila as the starting point.

From the Luneta Park, bike-riders would pass through the SAF Headquarters in Camp Bagong Diwa, Bicutan, Taguig City, proceed to SAF Training School in Fort Sto. Domingo in Sta. Rosa City, Laguna, and conclude their tour at the PNP Academy (PNPA) in Silang, Cavite.

A wreath-laying ceremony at the SAF 44 Monument in PNPA will serve as the culminating activity as a “gesture of sympathy to the fallen comrades.”

Part of the program is the narration of the history of the SAF and the heroism of the 44 police commandos, who successfully killed international terrorist Zulkifli Bin Hir, also known as Marwan.

Director for Police Community Relations (DPCR) Eduardo Serapio Mayote Garado encouraged all PNP units to join and invite participants to join the activity.

“The objective of this activity is to integrate all the efforts for the advocacy campaign in grateful recognition of the supreme sacrifice made by the Gallant SAF 44, and to commemorate their heroism. It also aims to generate popular support in promoting enduring peace in society.” Garado said in a statement.      /kga