Republic of the Philippines

ILOCOS SUR POLYTECHNIC STATE COLLEGE

MAIN CAMPUS
(formerly North Luzon Philippines State College)
San Nicolas, Candon City, Ilocos Sur

School of Criminal Justice Education

Course Code: LEA 4

Descriptive Title: Law Enforcement Operations and Planning
Term & SY: First Term, 2023-2024
Topic/s: Reaction Paper on “Mamasapano Incident”
Facilitator: Josie D. Buhain, RCrim
Name: Allan Jay R. Dagdag
Date: January 21, 2024

I. INTRODUCTION
On January 25, 2015, in tribute for the Gallant SAF 44 heroic deeds
of sacrifice and patriotism, The National Police College (NPC) initiated a
holy mass and wreath laying ceremony to give honor to the 44 brave men
who died in an encounter with Muslim rebels and private armed groups in
Mamasapano, Maguindanao Province. As our inspiration to continue on
our sworn duty to serve and protect for the future generation. The death of
the SAF Fallen 44 and their heroic deeds and sacrifice gave such grief to
their family, friends and the Filipino people. The incident has become one
of the most tragic events in Philippine history.

II. DISCUSSION

The speech made by former president Benigno Aquino regarding

the Mamasapano disaster broke several ethical rules, including being
truthful. I believe that Former President Aquino is not being completely
truthful when it comes to his role in the situation—rather, he is being
dishonest while wringing his hands of the horrific events. He failed to
disclose to the public—and especially not to the families of the fallen police
officers—what he knew and did not know, what he did and did not do prior
to and during those hours of violent conflict. He omitted from his speech
the admission that he was at fault for putting PNP Chief Purisima in charge
of the operation while he was still on suspension. Upon analyzing the
prepared address and viewing the speech in its entirety, I have observed
the president's lack of genuineness. His cold, uncaring demeanor toward
the relatives of the SAF victims betrayed his lack of empathy and sincerity.

III. CONCLUSION

Everyone involved in the tragic incident have their side of the story
to tell. The heroism of the 44 members of the Elite Special Action Force
(SAF) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) is a story that must be pass

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 Republic of the Philippines
ILOCOS SUR POLYTECHNIC STATE COLLEGE
MAIN CAMPUS
(formerly North Luzon Philippines State College)
San Nicolas, Candon City, Ilocos Sur

School of Criminal Justice Education

on to the next generation. Our 44 heroes did not die in vain, if not for their
sacrifice the country would have not achieved the peace and order that we
are experiencing today.

They perform an impossible task as they penetrate an enemy

stronghold in a remote area of Mamasapano in Maguindanao Province to
bring justice to the civilians who died from the bombs made by an
international terrorist, Zulkili Bin Hir alias ”Marwan”. Despite being trapped,
outnumbered and out gunned by the enemy forces, they stood on their
ground and carried out their mission. Their sacrifice will not be forgotten
and will always be a reminder that not all heroes have super powers, that
can fly or wear a cape.

IV. RECOMMENDATIONS

COVID-19 might be one of today’s super-villain, but it does not

discourage our real-life heroes from doing their job, tirelessly responding
to various emergencies and working to find ways to combat the threat and
eventually beat the invisible nemesis. Our nation is in debt to our Fallen
Heroes that we must always give remember to glory and honor. Their
legacy will remain and great example will be inherited to the future
generation.

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