Army honors Marawi siege heroes

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Nine years after the liberation of Marawi from Islamic State-aligned militants, the Army’s 4th Infantry Division (4ID) honored the sacrifices of more than 1,500 military and police personnel who were killed or wounded during the five-month siege.

The commemoration took place during a flag-raising ceremony at Camp Evangelista on Monday, Oct. 19.

Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff Gen. Antonio Nafarrete described the Battle of Marawi as a defining chapter in the country’s history that spurred the military to evolve.

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“While the liberation of Marawi reminds us that war comes at a cost, it also opens doors for the AFP. The experience pushed changes and improvements to support our future operations,” Nafarrete said in his message. He also remembered the suffering of affected communities and the troops who were killed or wounded.

Brig. Gen. Consolito Yecla, 4ID assistant division commander, delivered a message on behalf of 4ID commander Maj. Gen. Marion Angcao.

Angcao paid tribute to more than 160 soldiers and police personnel who were killed in action and more than 1,400 who were wounded during the Marawi siege.

“Their valor shall never be forgotten, and their sacrifice will forever remain a source of inspiration for every soldier who wears the uniform,” Angcao’s statement read.

The Monday ceremony followed a wreath-laying ceremony on Oct. 17 to honor the fallen. /das