Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio | PHOTO: Official facebook page of Inday Sara Duterte
MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte on Thursday honored the sacrifices of the 44 Special Action Force (SAF) commandos, tagging their “gallantry as a true benchmark of heroism for every Filipino to emulate.”
In a statement, amid the National Remembrance of the Heroic Sacrifice of SAF44, Duterte paid tribute to the fallen heroes “who fearlessly prioritized duty and freedom above all else.”
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She recognized the SAF44’s legacy, which she said is characterized by “unparalleled dedication, selflessness, and an unwavering love for our cherished nation and its people.”
“Our hearts extend a salute to the Fallen 44 and all our esteemed police forces. We shall forever draw inspiration from the sacrifices you made to safeguard the honor and liberty of our nation, shielding our fellow Filipinos from the threats and consequences of terrorism,” said Duterte.
“As we move forward, we carry with us the indelible acts of bravery etched in the annals of our history. Their gallantry serves as a true benchmark of heroism for every Filipino to emulate,” she added.
She then urged the public to stand in solidarity to commemorate the valor of each member of the SAF 44, as well as their families and loved ones.
“Though their victory was bittersweet, it ignited within us a flame of determination to forge more dignified paths towards sustainable peace,” said Duterte.
The SAF44 were killed in January 2015 during a mission to capture or kill Malaysian terrorist and bomb-maker Zulkifli Abdhir in Mamasapano, Maguindanao.
Apart from the 44 commandos, at least 18 Moro Islamic Liberation Front rebels, and seven civilians were killed in a shootout.
“We pledge to never forget. Together, we march onward, united by the spirit of resilience, unwavering in our pursuit of a peaceful and prosperous Philippines,” said Duterte.