HONORING HEROES. Maj. Gen. Rudolph B. Dimas (left), Philippine National Police (PNP) Director for Plans, and Brig. Gen. Andre P. Dizon, Police Regional Office 5 director, make a formal salute during the PRO5's observance of the National Day of Remembrance at Camp Simeon Ola in Legazpi City on Thursday (Jan. 25, 2024). The PRO5 paid tribute to the heroism of 44 Special Action Forces personnel who were killed in an anti-terrorist operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao on Jan. 25, 2015. (Photo courtesy of PRO5)
LEGAZPI CITY – The Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO5) on Thursday paid tribute to the heroism of the 44 Special Action Forces (SAF) personnel killed in an anti-terrorist operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao nine years ago, saying their sacrifices must be a reminder to every police officer to continue heroism, embody greatness and act with honor and love for the country.
Maj. Gen. Rudolph B. Dimas, Philippine National Police (PNP) Director for Plans, was the guest speaker during PRO5's observance of the National Day of Remembrance at Camp Simeon Ola here and delivered the message of PNP Chief, Gen. Benjamin C. Acorda Jr.
"The dedication and courage displayed by the SAF 44 in the face of danger exemplify the highest ideals of service, patriotism, and sacrifice. The Mamasapano incident stands as a constant reminder of the challenges and risks our law enforcement officers face daily in the pursuit of safeguarding our nation and its citizens," Dimas said.
Dimas, a former SAF director, added that the memory of the SAF 44 stands as an enduring inspiration, compelling to persist in advocating for justice and peace in the nation.
"We must recognize the importance of unity, coordination, and effective communication in our pursuit of national security. The sacrifices of our heroes must motivate us to strive for excellence in our duty to protect and serve. In their memory let us renew our commitment to strengthening our law enforcement agencies and enhancing operation capabilities and ensuring the support they need to carry out the crucial missions," he added.
Lt. Col. Chester P. Pomar, a member of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Kaisang-Bisig Class 2009 and "mistah" or schoolmate of the late Sr. Insp. Max Jim B. Tria from Catanduanes, also known as the "Last Man Standing" among the SAF 44, reminisced about his comrade's exceptional qualities and dedication.
"Jan. 25, 2015, it was one of the darkest days in the PNP history. It was the saddest day mixed with anger as I watched the news and learned that the three officers among the casualties who led the operations against the international terrorist Marwan were my classmates-- Captain Max Jim Tria, Sr., Captain Getnad Tabdi and Captain John Garry Erana. With a heavy heart together with my classmates, (we) silently accepted that they were already gone. Proud of their courage and dedication to serving the nation and the people," Pomar said.
He also thanked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for naming the 50th Maneuver Company Regional Mobile Force Battalion 5 in Barangay Esperanza, Pilar, Sorsogon as Camp Police Max Jim Ramirez Tria.
The PRO5 held a wreath-laying ceremony and rendered a 21-gun salute in remembrance of the SAF heroes.
Meanwhile, in Central Luzon, the Aurora Police Provincial Office (APPO) also led the commemoration of the bravery and heroism of the 44 SAF troopers.
Col. Myles Angel S. Pascual, APPO director, together with Col. Raul C. Siriban (retired) and the families of the fallen PO3 Nicky DC. Nacino and PO3 Martial Ronald B. Ruidera who were from San Luis, Aurora, led a wreath-laying ceremony and 21-gun salute followed by the giving of military honors at Camp Victor Ravina, Barangay Sabang here.
Pascual said the Mamasapano incident stands as a stark reminder of the challenges and risks that law enforcement personnel face in safeguarding the country and the citizenry.
“The death of our fallen heroes 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.
The APPO director also delivered the message of the PNP chief urging the police officers to continue the SAF 44's heroism.
“As we pay tribute to the SAF 44, let us honor their legacy by rededicating ourselves to the cause of upholding the rule of law, defending 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.
On the other hand, Siriban remembered the ultimate sacrifices of the fallen SAF 44, saying that Nacino, Ruidera and the others are true heroes and will never be forgotten.
APPO Deputy Provincial Director for Administration Lt. Col. Abraham B. Hambon said the SAF 44 had proven that heroism doesn’t occur from taking orders, but rather from people who through their own willpower and strength are willing to sacrifice their lives.
“Let us all remember the SAF 44 with love and sincerity while moving forward with pride and honor for the heroism and patriotism they portrayed for the country and the community they are serving,” Hambon said. (PNA)
