Heroes Hall, Malacañan Palace
April 17, 2018

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte recognized the heroic sacrifice of the fallen 44 Philippine National Police (PNP) Special Action Force (SAF) in an awarding ceremony at the Heroes Hall in Malacañan Palace.

The Commander-in-Chief presented the posthumous PNP Medals of Valor and the Order of Lapu-Lapu, Magalong Medals to the families of the fallen policemen who were killed in the ill-fated operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao on January 25, 2015. He also acknowledged the gallant deeds of the fallen troops, saying, “their extraordinary display of bravery during that fateful operation does not just qualify them to receive this highly-coveted decoration. It also makes them worthy to be called as heroes,” and vowed to serve justice to the bereaved families.

President Duterte urged the nation’s uniformed personnel to be motivated by their fallen comrades’ sacrifice by serving “with utmost dedication, excellence, loyalty, and love of country.” He also guaranteed welfare assistance programs such as housing projects, scholarships, and employment opportunities that will benefit the families left behind by the SAF 44.

Likewise, the President mentioned that the fallen policemen inspires the Filipino people to support the ongoing peace process, as well as the PNP’s effort to instill law and order in the country.

“Let us not just honor our troops’ remarkable display of patriotism through ceremonies like this. Let us also fight for genuine and lasting peace in our communities and across the nation because it is only through this that we can truly honor the legacy of the 44 [men] who gave the ultimate sacrifice in Mamasapano,” President Duterte ended.

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