MANILA — A Catholic priest is hoping that the heroism of the slain 44 members of the Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) would serve as an inspiration to the active members of the police force.
PNP Chaplain Service Chief of Staff Rev. Fr. Sr. Supt. Arnolfo Castillo believes that the dedication showed by those who perished to defend the country from terrorists should inspire the authorities to do good in their jobs.
“Lagi naming sina-sample hindi lamang yung SAF 44 maging ‘yung recent (fighting) sa Marawi na ang kabayanihan ay bahagi ng paglilingkod at all times ay makapag-contribute sa bayan (We always mention not only the SAF 44 but also those who fought in Marawi which remind us that heroism is part of service to the nation at all times),” he said in an interview over Church-run Radio Veritas.
“Lagi naming pinapa-inspire ang buhay ng mga kasundaluhan na many times ay malayo sa kanilang pamilya (We always say that everyone must be inspired by the lives of our troops who are away from their families) and they risk their lives but it’s all because of their love for God, country and the people,” the Catholic priest furthered.
He also pointed out the honesty, heroism, and the sacrifices they made whenever they go out and fight in a bid to maintain peace in the country.
Castillo also urged the people to join the nation in commemorating the third anniversary of the bloody encounter in Mamasapano, Maguindanao, by offering prayers to the 44 SAF members and their families.
“So ini-encourage na lang na by region, lahat ng region ay tinatawag na sa A Day of Remembrance ay isama sa misa o kaya (We encourage every region to join the Day of Remembrance through offering prayers in masses) or spiritual or religious service with respect to other religion. Kami naman, sa mga Catholic chaplain, (As for us Catholic chaplains) we make it sure na merong misa sa mga rehiyon ngayon (that there are masses in the regions today), A Day of Remembrance to honor the life of the troopers…” he added.
With this, the Catholic Church believed that the investigation on the case should continue to unravel what really transpired during that fateful day and for justice to be served to those who have died in the operation.