MANILA, Philippines - Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ricardo Marquez on Saturday led the celebration of Special Action Force (SAF) Memorial Day at Camp Bagong Diwa Bicutan, Taguig City.
Together with SAF head, Director Moro Virgilio Lazo, and other PNP key officials, Marquez graced the event to pay tribute and give honor to the fallen men and women of SAF.
One of the highlights of the event was the wreath-laying ceremony for the SAF 44 who were killed in the Mamasapano incident last January 25.
"I am proud to say that the heroes we honor today have indeed lived and served God, country and people along the core values of service, integrity and excellence. Together, let us continue to give life to the SAF motto, 'By skill and virtue, we triumph’ and I say, by their lives sacrificed, we triumph," Marquez said.
After his speech, Marquez saluted the fallen SAF troopers.
The families and friends of the slain SAF 44 troopers also attended the event.
During the PNP 114th anniversary on Friday, the police organization's admitted that the slain SAF 44 troopers were not included in the program where police officers were given awards and recognition for their sacrifice and accomplishments.
In a statement, the PNP said that it takes the awarding process takes a "thorough evaluation."
"That's why the review could not be completed on time despite our best efforts. For this reason, these awards were not included in the program today.
"But rest assured that the deliberation and vetting process by the committee are ongoing and shall render the honor due to the SAF 44 at the most appropriate time," the PNP statement read.