MANILA – Special Assistant to the President (SAP) Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go on Monday recognized the sacrifices of the Filipino soldiers and police force as he led the launching of a book narrating the hardships and sacrifices of state troops in the five-month Marawi battle.
“Although winning the battle cost us numerous lives of our troops, their needs during the five-month-long battle have allowed us to liberate not only the city but the entire country from the clutches of violence and terror,” Go said in his speech during the launching of the book “Marawi and Beyond” at the Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City.
Go, one of the senatorial candidates eyed by the ruling political party PDP-Laban in the 2019 elections, assured the government’s continued support to the families of slain and wounded soldiers.
He also lauded the members of the Joint Task Force Marawi for a job well done in defeating the terrorists during the five-month war that reduced Marawi City to a rubble.
“The book we are launching today explores the formation of the Joint Task Force Marawi and their efforts to liberate the City of Marawi from the hands of terrorists,” Go said.
The book also chronicles the heroic deeds of the gallant men and women of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police.
“This book will not only immortalize the exploits of our men and women in uniform but will also serve as a reminder to future generations of the sacrifices of our soldiers and policemen in retaking Marawi City,” he said.
As top aide of President Rodrigo Duterte, Go said he personally witnessed the bravery and courage of the soldiers and policemen.
“And for that reason, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all of you,” he said.
He also called on the Filipino people to support and always remember the sacrifices of the state security troops by reading the book.
“Let us unite to defeat terrorism as well as illegal drugs, corruption and criminality,” Go added. (PNA)
