THE Police Regional Office (PRO)-Central Luzon paid tribute on Tuesday, January 25, to the 44 Special Action Force (SAF) troopers who died in a clash with terrorist groups in Mamasapano, Maguindanao seven years ago.

A wreath-laying ceremony was held at the PRO-Central Luzon Heroes’ Monument in Camp Olivas, City of San Fernando. It was witnessed by families of some of the SAF 44.

Aside from the killed troopers, personnel of Philippine National who died due to coronavirus disease (Covid-19) were likewise remembered.

As of January 23, PRO-Central Luzon logged at least eight deaths among its personnel due to Covid-19.

PRO Regional Director Matthew Baccay described the SAF44 and other policemen who died in line of duty as the modern day heroes.

“Their heroism will continue to serve as the beacon of light for all of us and a guiding instrument of achieving lasting peace and order in our country,” he said.