Throughout generations, the stories of the nation’s fallen heroes transcend the battlefield, shaping the way we live, remember, and uphold our values. Their sacrifice becomes a lasting legacy etched into our history, reminding us that valor is timeless. To honor them is to recognize that their legacy still breathes in the life of the nation.
With the theme “In Valor, We Remember: We Pledge for Future Generations,” the country once again stood united on January 25, 2026, in remembrance of the gallant members of the Special Action Force (SAF) 44, whose ultimate sacrifice in Mamasapano, Maguindanao, during an operation on January 25, 2015, continues to inspire courage, patriotism, and devotion to duty. Tasked with a high-risk counter-terrorism mission to apprehend Malaysian terrorist Zulkifli Bin Hir, alias “Marwan,” the SAF 44 troopers faced overwhelming odds with steadfast resolve, leaving behind a legacy of valor that endures in the nation’s collective memory.
The National Day of Remembrance was marked by simultaneous tributes across the country, led by the Chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., in a solemn ceremony held at the PNP SAF Headquarters in Fort Santo Domingo, Sta. Rosa, Laguna, where he was formally welcomed by Police Major General Mark D. Pespes, SAF Director.
In his message, the PNP Chief emphasized that their ultimate sacrifice serves as a constant reminder of the risks faced by police personnel in the performance of their sworn duty.
“The SAF 44 faced danger head-on, guided by their oath to serve and protect the Filipino people. What happened in Mamasapano showed the depth of their courage, their brotherhood, and their genuine love for country—values that define what it truly means to be a police officer,” he said.
PGen Nartatez further stressed that honoring their memory strengthens the collective resolve of the organization to remain steadfast in upholding peace, security, and the rule of law. Aligned with Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman, PNP reaffirmed its commitment to building a police force worthy of public trust.
The ceremony was attended by family representatives of the SAF 44, notably Ms. Mary Margaret E. Sanoria and Police Major Alrick A. Erana, the sister and brother of the late Police Chief Inspector John Garry A. Erana. Members of the Oplan Exodus operators likewise joined the commemoration, paying tribute to their fallen comrades and affirming the enduring legacy of valor and service exemplified by the SAF troopers.
Similarly, a separate wreath-laying ceremony was held at the Bantayog ng mga Bayaning Tagapamayapa, Camp BGen Rafael T Crame in Quezon City, led by Police Lieutenant General Bernard M. Banac, the Deputy Chief PNP for Administration, together with the families and dependents of the SAF 44, including Mrs. Raechel June M. Sumbilla, wife of the late Police Staff Sergeant John Lloyd R. Sumbilla. The men and women of the police force stood in solidarity with the families, affirming that the memory of the fallen heroes remains a shared responsibility of the institution and the nation.
Across regions, simultaneous commemorations, holy masses, and moments of silence were observed, highlighting nationwide unity in honoring the valor and sacrifice of the SAF 44. Their legacy endures, carried forward by the organization they served and the people they protected. In remembering them, the nation renews its vow to pursue justice, uphold peace, and honor the men whose sacrifice remains a beacon of heroism for the Philippines.
