The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) held on Saturday, July 10, 2021, an interfaith memorial service for the 49 soldiers who perished in the C-130 crash in Patikul, Sulu.

Military priests, pastors and imams officiated the memorial service held at the AFP General Headquarters (GHQ) Canopy in Camp Aguinaldo. It was the culmination for the weeklong national solemnity for the fatalities.

“We are giving the highest tribute we can offer, to our comrades who made the ultimate sacrifice,” AFP Vice Chief of Staff Erickson Gloria, who led the activity, said.

“We bear upon our shoulders the sacred responsibility of remembering their resolute faith and passion as they sought to fulfill their sworn mandate to protect and serve the Filipino people,” he added.

Military officers, personnel and staff all wore black bands around the sleeve of their uniform to mourn the dead. Calls for prayers were made and bells were rung in honor of the soldiers.

The service was followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Heroes Memorial in Camp Aguinaldo, a flag retreat and the 21 volleys of gunfire.

The military honors and ceremonies were also conducted in major services headquarters, unified commands headquarters and selected major units of the AFP across the country.

“Our comrades-in-arms should never die in vain. I therefore implore every member of the AFP to carry on with the fight for a peaceful and progressive Philippines. Together, let us solemnly salute each of our fallen heroes for their unrivaled sacrifices for the country,” said Gloria.

Three civilians were also killed during the crash while 47 soldiers and four civilians were injured.

The Philippine Air Force ensured that all necessary support and assistance will be provided to the injured personnel as well as complete benefits to the dependents of the fatalities.

Assistance will also be given to the families of the three civilians who were killed or injured.

The Air Force expressed deep gratitude to the civilians who immediately responded to help rescue the soldiers.

Colonel Dennis Estrella, Tactical Operations Wing Western Mindanao commander, said they will conduct a search and rescue training for the civilian rescuers. (SunStar Philippines)