CABANATUAN CITY – The Nueva Ecija Police Provincial Office led by Col. Jess B. Mendez paid tribute to the heroism of the 44 Special Action Force (SAF) troopers who were killed in a botched operation dubbed “Oplan Exodus” in Mamasapano, Maguindanao exactly seven years ago on Tuesday here.

Mendez said, “the SAF 44’s sacrifices won’t be forgotten even during this extraordinary time when the Philippine National Police is faced with greater challenges ahead such as battling criminality and the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuring a safe, peaceful, and credible conduct of the upcoming May 9 national and local elections.”

The new Nueva Ecija top cop, who assumed the post on Jan. 9, led this year’s observance of the National Day of Remembrance for the fallen SAF 44 heroes at the provincial police camp, Tuesday morning.

The event was highlighted by wreath-laying and candle-lighting activities, the rendering of the 21-gun salute, and releasing of white balloons in their honor and fallen local police personnel in the province.

During the event, Mendez also paid tribute to those NEPPO officers who were killed in anti-criminality operations and died due to COVID-19.

Honored were fallen NEPPO personnel identified as Master Sgts. Jacinto Gregorio, Marlon P. Francisco, Baltazar G. Sacro, and Staff Sgt. Roy M. Empaynado, who all were granted posthumously with certificates of recognition which were received by their respective wives.

“Truly, the cost of defending our country and its freedom comes at a very steep price. The least we can do is to honor these men who selflessly accomplished their mission in exchange of their lives. The greater challenge ahead of us demands for us to be alert, dedicated, and truthful. With your selfless dedication and sincerity in doing your assigned duty, together, we will thrive in this volatile, uncertain, and complex situation,” he added. Steve A. Gosuico

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Steve A. Gosuico