MANILA — The Philippine Army paid homage to the valiant soldiers and police officers killed during the five-month battle to retake Marawi City from the clutches of Maute-ISIS Group terrorists Wednesday.
This was highlighted by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers, Libingan ng mga Bayani, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, Army spokesperson Lt. Col.Louie Villanueva said.
The event, which took place during the first year commemoration of the conflict, was spearheaded by PA vice commander Major General Robert M. Arevalo.
“This commemoration gives us glimpse of that epic moment of our history. It reminds us of our modern heroes who represent the character of our army’s long history of patriotism and the cause for which they laid down their lives. The battle they have fought may have long been over. And, the peace we now enjoy is the fruit of their heroism. Let the passion and spirit of patriotism keep burning in our hearts, and let this be the time for us to do our share to preserve the freedom they have fought for,” he added.
Among those who came to honor the fallen heroes were the former members of the Joint Task Force Marawi, Army personnel and civilian employees.
Villanueva said 165 soldiers and police officers were killed in the bloody fighting which started May 23, 2017 and ended on October of that year.
Some were laid to rest in their respective hometowns while some were interred at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. (Priam Nepomuceno/PNA)
