PRO-NIR Conducts Solemn Ceremony to Honor Fallen SAF 44 Heroes in Bacolod
The Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) organized a heartfelt commemoration for the National Day of Remembrance for the Heroic Sacrifice of the Special Action Force (SAF) 44 on Sunday, January 25, 2025. The event took place in front of the PRO-NIR Admin Building at Camp Alfredo Montelibano Sr., located in Barangay Estefania, Bacolod City.
Leadership and Personnel Pay Tribute to Fallen Commandos
Brigadier General Arnold Thomas Ibay, serving as the PRO-NIR director, spearheaded the ceremony by leading personnel in honoring the bravery, patriotism, and ultimate sacrifice of the 44 police commandos. These heroes gave their lives in the pursuit of peace, security, and the welfare of the Filipino people. The gathering included the command group, regional staff, the 6th Special Action Force Battalion, along with various other officers and personnel from PRO-NIR, all united in remembrance.
Ceremonial Activities and Reflections on Sacrifice
According to Lieutenant Colonel Joem Malong, chief of the PRO-NIR Public Information Office, the program featured a solemn moment of silence and the offering of wreaths. These acts served to honor the SAF 44, whose courage in the line of duty stands as a powerful symbol of selfless service and unwavering commitment to the nation. This year's theme, "Courage Beyond Measure: Remembering the Sacrifice of the SAF 44 for Peace," underscored the enduring legacy of the fallen personnel. Their sacrifice continues to inspire members of the Philippine National Police to uphold professionalism, honor, and dedication to duty.
Brig. Gen. Ibay's Message on Valor and Legacy
In his address, Ibay reflected on the events of 11 years ago in Mamasapano, where 44 SAF members answered the highest call of duty. He emphasized that they chose courage over comfort, mission over self, and service over personal safety. "Their sacrifice was a conscious act of valor, borne of discipline, faith, and unwavering commitment to the Filipino people, and their heroism reshaped institutions and strengthened national resolve," Ibay stated. He added that their story embodies the ideals of the police profession, highlighting that the uniform represents a commitment to service and duty, including the responsibility to respond when called upon and to remain steadfast in challenging situations.
Renewed Commitment to Peace and Public Trust
Ibay expressed profound gratitude to the families of the SAF 44, assuring them that their loved ones are remembered through the ongoing mission, reforms, and service of current police officers. He stressed that the commemoration is more than a ritual—"It is a renewal of purpose, a reminder that peace demands vigilance, leadership requires moral courage, and public trust is earned through sacrifice." This reaffirms the organization's dedication to remembering, honoring, and advancing the peace that the SAF 44 gave their lives to protect.
The regional office has reaffirmed its commitment to honor their memory through decisive actions, such as protecting communities, upholding the rule of law, and continuing the mission for which they sacrificed. This ensures that their courage and sacrifice remain etched in the hearts of the Filipino people and the men and women of the Philippine National Police.
