REFLECTION OF COURAGE. Relatives of the 14 Cordilleran soldiers who were among the “Special Action Force 44" attend the commemoration of the 8th National Remembrance for the Heroic Sacrifice of the SAF 44 at the Manor Hotel in Baguio City on Wednesday (Jan. 25, 2023). The SAF 44 were killed in an anti-terrorism operation in Maguindanao in 2015. (PNA photo by Liza T. Agoot)
BAGUIO CITY – The valor and selflessness shown by the Special Action Force (SAF) 44 who died in an anti-terrorism operation in Maguindanao in 2015 will forever be a reflection of the sacrifices and courage of Filipino police officers, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin has said.
In a speech read by North Luzon Area Police Commander Maj. Gen. Oliver Enmodias, Azurin said the SAF 44's legacy of heroism serves as an inspiration for future generations of police officers to continue to serve with valor and integrity.
“That unfortunate incident, which resulted in the tragic loss of our 44 Special Action Force troopers, is a powerful reminder of the selflessness and devotion of our police officers to do their duty. Despite the odds and difficulties they faced, these brave young men remained committed to carrying out the mission to protect and serve our communities,” he said.
The speech was delivered during the commemoration of the 8th National Day of Remembrance for the Heroic Sacrifice of the 44 Fallen Special Action Force Commandos at the Manor Hotel inside Camp John Hay in Baguio City on Wednesday.
A marker now lies at Camp John Hay to honor the 14 Cordilleran soldiers who perished together with 30 other SAF troopers.
Members of the Police Regional Office - Cordillera and the family of the 14 Cordillerans attended the event.
“Like the generations of warrior heroes before them, our fallen SAF 44 gave everything they had not for glory or recognition but for something greater than themselves. The least we can do is remember them and their ultimate sacrifices,” Azurin said.
The theme, “Legacy of Heroes: Inspiration of Future Generations,” serves as a reminder of the importance of valor, honor, and duty, the PNP chief added.
The SAF 44 are true representatives of the character of a nation that values patriotism and honor, he said, adding that their gallantry has left an indelible mark in the hearts and minds of the nation.
“We will continue to honor their memory and supreme sacrifice as we make sure that their legacy lives on through our actions and dedication to the service. They will always be remembered as true heroes who have given their lives for the service,” Azurin said.
Soldiers' kin
Edna Tabdi, mother of Insp. Gednat Tabdi who was among the SAF 44, said her four remaining children went on to become members of the PNP just like their brother.
“They were inspired by Gednat and he was the reason they joined the PNP and they continue to serve the country,” she said.
Edna, whose name is embedded in his son’s first name, said his son would never be forgotten.
"His name is always mentioned when someone calls me and he will continue to be in our hearts,” she said. “When my son passed away, the only thing I asked from the government is for my other children to be assigned here to be near me. But I did not ask that they leave the service and they also did not desire to leave but to continue to serve the country." (PNA)
