Bank account created for slain cops’ families

President Benigno Aquino III addresses the nation regarding the tragic misencounter in Mamasapano, Maguindanao where over 40 policemen were killed (screenshot from RTV Malacanang live stream)

MANILA — Malacañang on Thursday released the details on how the government plans to extend help for the families of the 44 members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Special Action Force (SAF) who were killed in Mamasapano town, Maguindanao, last Sunday.

One of which is the creation of a bank account where funds for the families of the victims will be coursed through, according to Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr.

The account, created by the Department of Social Welfare and Development has the following details:

Landbank of the Philippines (LBP)
Account Name: “DSWD-Armed Conflict Mamasapano, Maguindanao”
LBP Current Account Number (CA) No.: 3122-1026-28

“The President last night appealed to the public to extend utmost support to the bereaved families of the heroic members of the PNP-Special Action Force, who gave their lives in the service of the country,” Coloma said.

Aquino addressed the nation as he shared sympathy to the families of the slain police officers.

The president admitted the lack of coordination on the ground following the incident and added that he is still waiting for the final results of the investigation currently being conducted.

Aquino also assured the families of the victims that the government will be extending maximum assistance.

“I also take the opportunity to appeal to the public: If possible let us extend our utmost support to the bereaved, and maximize the help we can give to the families of those who fell, in recognition of the valor of these heroes who gave their lives for the realization of the peace we have long desired,” Aquino had said.

“To the families of the SAF members who perished: I fully sympathize with your grief. I know that this grief may be accompanied by worries about your future, especially if your loved ones who sacrificed their lives were also your breadwinners,” Aquino added.