President Ferdinand 'Bongbong Marcos Jr. on Wednesday honored the 44 officers of the Special Action Force (SAFP) who died during an anti-terror operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao in 2015.
To mark the 8th anniversary of the fallen SAFP officers, Marcos penned a tribute message posted on his official Facebook page.
"We honour the 44 brave Special Action Force officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty," Marcos said.
"Their heroism will always inspire us as we continue to protect and serve our people," he added.
The ceremony for SAF 44's National Day of Remembrance was held in Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig on Wednesday morning.
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr. and Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin graced the ceremony.
"The gallantry of the SAFP 44 will never be forgotten for they have left an indelible mark in the hearts and minds of our nation. Their sacrifice was not made in vain, but rather to ensure the safety and security of the community, and to defend our rights and freedom," Azurin said in his speech.
In 2017, former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte issued Proclamation No. 164 declaring January 25 as the National day of Remembrance for the fallen SAFP 44.