Ang Pahayagan

BALER, Aurora-The Aurora Police Provincial Office (APPO) on Thursday, January 25, 2024, led the commemoration of the bravery and heroism of the 44 Special Action Forces (SAF) troopers who were killed in an anti-terrorist operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao in 2015 (nine years ago).

Police Colonel Myles Angel S. Pascual, APPO Provincial Director together with Retired Police Colonel Raul C. Siriban and the families of the fallen PO3 Nicky DC. Nacino and PO3 Martial Ronald B. Ruidera (residents in San Luis, Aurora) led the wreath laying ceremony, 21-gun salute and followed by the military honors during the Day of National Remembrance for the SAF 44 held at Camp Victor Ravina, Barangay Sabang, here.

Pascual said the Mamasapano incident stand as stark reminder of the challenges and risks of the law enforcement face in pursuit of safeguarding the country and the citizenry.

“The death of our leaves an enduring imprint in our history, their sacrifice will forever be etched in our hearts…a strong manifestation that police officers are always ready to carry out their mission despite the odds and difficulties along the way” Pascual said.

Pascual who also delivered the message of Philippine National Police Chief, Gen. Benjamin Acorda, Jr. said they can never bring the lives they have given, may the SAF 44 sacrifice serve as a challenge to continue their heroism, to embody greatness, and to act with honor and love for the country, and inspiration to continue advocating for justice and peace in the country.

“As we pay tribute to the SAF44, let us honor their legacy by rededicating ourselves to the cause of upholding the rule of law, depending our nation against terrorism and promoting peace and stability in our communities. We must remain worthy of the great sacrifices of our fallen heroes, forever loyal to the country they loved and served, and the freedom they fought and died for,” he said.

Addressing the families of SAF 44, Pascual also expressed his deepest sorrow and said that the APPO will continually to pray for the souls of their kin and be thankful for their noble deeds referring to Nacino and Ruidera.

On the other hand, Retired Police Col. Siriban remembered the ultimate sacrifices of the fallen SAF44. He said that the fallen Nacino and Ruidera and other members of the SAF44 are true heroes and will never be forgotten.

APPO Deputy Provincial Director for Administration Police Lt. Col. Abraham B. Hambon said that the SAF44 had proven that heroism doesn’t occur from taking orders, but rather from people who through their own willpower and strength and are willing to sacrifice their lives.

“Let us all remember the SAF44 with love and sincerity while moving forward with pride ad honor for the heroism and patriotism they portrayed for the country and the community they are serving,” Hambon said.

The father of Nacino Jr., Nicky Nacino Sr., expressed his sincerest thanks to the PNP for the yearly commemoration of his son together with the other fallen SAF44. He said that it has been nine years since that fateful day where his son died in Mamasapano saying that the memories of the Gallant 44 serve as constant inspiration to strengthen the sworn duty of the PNP to protect the public from lawless elements, criminal acts, terrorism among others. (Jason de Asis)