Soldiers’ sacrifices linger in our shared memory – Bongbong Marcos

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Friday awarded special social benefits to the families of slain or permanently wounded soldiers, telling them that their sacrifices will not be forgotten.

Marcos awarded special assistance to six selected beneficiaries in Davao City.

“Bukod sa pagpapahalaga ng kanilang pagpapakasakit, kinikilala natin ang iniwan nilang malaking kontribusyon sa pagkakakilanlan sa kasaysayan ng Pilipinas,” the Chief Executive said during the awarding ceremony.

(Aside from honoring their perseverance, we recognize their immense contribution to the distinction of Philippine history.)

“Ang kanilang sakripisyo ay hindi natin malilimutan. Ito ay bahagi ng ating kolektibong kamalayan,” he added.

(Their sacrifice will not be forgotten. It is part of our collective memory.)

The benefits are part of the Comprehensive Social Benefits Program (CBSP), which has government aid such as special financial assistance, house and lot grants.

Included in the benefits are housing units from the National Housing Authority and special financial assistance from the Office of the President worth P500,000.

CBSP was mandated by  Executive No. 110, issued by former President Rodrigo Duterte, which sought to help families left behind by slain armed uniformed personnel.

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President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. awards special benefits to the families of slain or wounded soldiers in Davao city on Friday, September 29, 2023. | Photo from RTVM Malacañang

Marcos also condoled with the families of the slain soldiers, emphasizing the government’s support for all soldiers.

“Taos-pusong pakikiramay po sa mga pamilyang naiwan nila,” he said.

(My wholehearted sympathies to those they left behind.)

“Asahan po ninyo na ang pamahalaan ay patuloy na magsisikap na bigyan ng kaukulang suporta ang ating kapulisan, kasundaluhan, at iba pang hanay upang magampanan nila ng maayos ang kanilang mandato,” the President went on.

(You can expect that the government will continue to give the corresponding support to the police, soldiers and other law enforcers so that they can adequately perform their mandates.)

“Kasama sa pagsisikap na ito ay ang tiyakin ang kapakanan ng inyong mga pamilya,” said Marcos.

(Part of that effort is ensuring the welfare of their families.)

Also in attendance at the event were Vice President Sara Duterte, Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Romeo Brawner Jr.

APL/abc