‘Ultimate sacrifice’: SAF 44 remembered 10 years after Mamasapano clash

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'Their courage and love for the nation will never be forgotten,' says Edna Tabdi, mother of one of the Special Action Force members killed in the 2015 Mamasapano encounter

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — “Ten years have passed, but my heart still aches,” said Edna Tabdi, mother of the late Police Senior Inspector Gednat Tabdi, one of the SAF 44 killed during a police operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao, on January 25, 2015.

“I am proud, though, that my son and his comrades made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Their courage and love for the nation will never be forgotten,” Tabdi added.

Her words echo the grief and pride of a nation forever moved by the heroism of the 44 Special Action Force (SAF) commandos who lost their lives in the Mamasapano encounter in Maguindanao in 2015. The operation, codenamed Oplan Exodus, succeeded in neutralizing Malaysian bomb maker Zulkifli bin Hir alias Marwan, leader of Southeast Asian militant group Jema’ah Islamiyah but at a cost.

Edna Tabdi, mother of the late Police Senior Inspector Gednat Tabdi, delivers a heartfelt message on behalf of the families, honoring the bravery and sacrifice of the SAF 44, on January 24, 2025. Mia Magdalena Fokno/Rappler

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Mamasapano clash, commemorated through solemn ceremonies nationwide. In Baguio City, families of the fallen, Philippine National Police officials led by Cordillera police chief Brigadier General David Peredo Jr., and local leaders gathered at the SAF 44 Memorial in Camp John Hay for a flower-laying ceremony.

The event began with a mass offering prayers of gratitude and remembrance, underscoring the enduring significance of their sacrifice. “Their memory lives on in the strength of their sacrifice,” Tabdi reflected.

Proclamation No. 164, signed by then-President Rodrigo Duterte on February 21, 2017, declare January 25 as the Day of National Remembrance for the SAF 44. This annual observance ensures their legacy continues to inspire Filipinos, especially those in uniform, to serve with honor and integrity.

The Mamasapano incident is remembered as a dark day in Philippine law enforcement history. What began as a mission to capture a high-value terrorist turned into a fierce battle with armed groups, leaving the SAF 44 outnumbered and without reinforcements. Their courage under fire, however, remains a symbol of unwavering dedication to duty.

Baguio City’s tribute highlighted the region’s loss, as 14 of the 44 fallen heroes were Cordilleran troopers. The ceremony was not only a moment of mourning but also of resilience, as families turned grief into honor, ensuring their sons’ legacies live on.

As flowers were laid at the SAF Memorial and prayers filled the air, the message was clear: the gallant SAF 44 may be gone, but their memory endures.

Honoring the Cordilleran heroes

Among the 44 heroes, 14 hailed from the Cordillera region. they are known collectively as the “Cordillera Braves” who embody the courage and dedication characteristic of the Cordilleran spirit.

They are the following:

• Police Senior Inspector Gednat Tabdi – La Trinidad, Benguet
• Police Senior Inspector Cyrus Anniban – Tabuk City, Kalinga
• Police Officer 3 Robert Allaga – Banaue, Ifugao
• Police Officer 3 Noel Golocan – Baguio City
• Police Officer 2 Peterson Carap – Kabayan, Benguet
• Police Officer 2 Walner Danao – Baguio City
• Police Officer 2 Franklin Danao – Tinoc, Ifugao
• Police Officer 2 Jerry Kayob – La Trinidad, Benguet
• Police Officer 2 Noble Kiangan – Mankayan, Benguet
• Police Officer 2 Nicky Nacino Jr. – Baguio City
• Police Officer 2 Joel Dulnuan – Kiangan, Ifugao
• Police Officer 1 Russel Bilog – Baguio City
• Police Officer 1 Gringo Cayang-o – Sadanga, Mountain Province
• Police Officer 1 Angel Kodiamat – Mankayan, Benguet

– Rappler.com