Cordillera commemorates heroism of its 14 slain SAF troopers

Baguio City, Philippines – Police authorities along with Cordillera leaders observed the “Day of Remembrance” for heroism of 44 elite police officers who were killed in the operation to capture Malaysian terrorist Zulkifli Abdhir alias “Marwan” in Tukanalipao, Mamasapano, Maguindanao on Jan. 25, 2015.

In a ceremony at The Manor Hotel, Camp John Hay, Baguio City attended by PNP Area Police Command - North Luzon Deputy Commander PMGen. Oliver Enmodias, Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong and Regional Director Police Regional Office-Cordillera, PBGen. Mafelino Bazar, the PNP Special Action Force (SAF) rendered 21-gun salute to the fallen heroes.

Of the 44 SAF troopers, 14 are Cordilleran warriors. They were PO2 Peterson Carap of Kabayan, Benguet; PO1 Gringo Cayang-o of Sadanga, Mountain Province; PO1 Angel Kodiamat of Bontoc, Mountain Province; PO2 Jerry Kayob of La Trinidad, Benguet; PO2 Nobel Kiangan of Mankayan, Benguet.

Also part of the troop were PO3 Noel Golocan of Mankayan, Benguet and Sagada, Mountain Province; PO2 Walner Danao of Irisan, Baguio City; PSI Gednat Tabdi of La Trinidad, Benguet; PSI Cyrus Anniban of Balbalan, Kalinga; PO3 Robert Allaga of Banaue, Ifugao; PO2 Franklin Danao of Tinoc, Ifugao; PO2 Nicky De Castro Nacino Jr. of Baguio City and Aurora Province; PO1 Russel Bilog of Tabuk City, Kalinga and Sagada, Mountain Province.

Magalong expressed his dismay over the lack of progress in bringing those responsible to justice.

“The investigation has been hampered by a lack of cooperation and political interference. The truth has been obscured and key witnesses have been intimidated. The lack of accountability has only served to perpetuate the culture of impunity that plagues our society. It is unacceptable that those responsible for the deaths of the SAF 44 have not been brought to justice,” he stated.

The mayor then called ‘for those in positions of power and influence to put aside their political considerations and do everything in their power to bring justice to these men.’

Other PNP officials, including the family of the fallen heroes and other guests were also present in said event.

LISTEN TO STATION 1 RADIO: CLICK ME

OTHER NEWS 

Water delivery boy accused of raping teen arrested in Tuba, Benguet

Follow Guru Press Cordillera  on Facebook for more News and Information