Nine years after the tragic deaths of the 44 elite Special Action Force (SAF) commandos in Mamasapano, Maguindanao, their sacrifice remains a “powerful reminder” of the need for national unity, Vice President Sara Duterte said in a video message commemorating the National Day of Remembrance for the Heroic Sacrifice of the SAF 44.
“May the lessons learned from this tragic loss inspire us to work together to overcome challenges and strive for a safer and more secure future for all Filipinos,” Duterte emphasized.
She added, “SAF 44 symbolizes the importance of national unity and our shared responsibility to safeguard the country’s security.”
Remembering the SAF 44
On January 25, 2015, 44 SAF commandos lost their lives during an operation in Mamasapano that targeted terrorists Zulkifli bin Hir, alias Marwan, and Basit Usman. While Marwan was killed in the operation, Usman was apprehended months later in May 2015.
The incident saw the SAF operatives engaged in a deadly clash with fighters from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), and other armed groups in the area.
In 2017, then-President Rodrigo Duterte officially declared January 25 as the National Day of Remembrance for the SAF 44.
Legal Developments
Last December, a Taguig court convicted two MILF commanders—Abubakar Guiaman and Mohammad Ali Tambako—of 35 counts of homicide in connection with the SAF 44 killings. While the charges were reduced from direct assault with murder, the Department of Justice hailed the decision as a “victory” in the ongoing pursuit of justice.
However, Getulio Napeñas Jr., who served as SAF chief during the operation, stated last month that justice has yet to be fully served, citing unresolved complaints against those responsible for the deaths. Napeñas and former PNP chief Alan Purisima were acquitted by the Sandiganbayan of graft and usurpation charges linked to their roles in the anti-terror mission.
Honoring the Fallen
“As we honor their lives and offer our deepest condolences to their families, we must also recognize the immense challenges and dangers faced by law enforcement and military personnel,” Vice President Duterte remarked.
The legacy of the SAF 44 continues to inspire calls for unity, resilience, and collective responsibility in protecting the nation.