President Benigno Simeon Aquino III delivers his speech during the 36th Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Commencement Exercises of the Lakandula Class of 2015 at the PNPA Grandstand, Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite on Thursday (March 26). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
MANILA, Philippines – Six SAF commandos killed in the Mamasapano incident came from the Philippine National Police Academy or PNPA.
And as President Benigno Aquino III stands before the members of the PNPA who graduated on Thursday, he asked for understanding with regard to the bloody encounter last January 25.
“What I can do after everything has been said and done: is to ask for understanding. However stern is the reprimand I issued for violating my order, however I repented for trusting those people who kept the truth from me, I will not be able to eradicate the glaring truth. 44 members of our police force were dead. This took place during my administration. This truth will remain in me ’til my death,” Aquino said in his speech.
The President insisted that had he known the danger that maybe posed by the said operation, he will not allow it to continue.
“I wish to reiterate: I will not allow anyone from our uniformed men to go into a suicide mission. Had I known that the mission is extremely perilous, I will be the first to order its discontinuance,” Aquino added.
The President also revealed the reason why he was not present in Villamor Airbase when the SAF 44 were brought to Manila.
“I regret that in my desire to give chance to the families to mourn the first time they will see their loved ones who were killed, some were instead thinking that I am insensitive. My intention really was to help facilitate the healing process. What I really wanted was that if anyone asks: what happened? Why did they die? What will become of us? I have clear answers with me,” the President said.
At the end, Pres. Aquino ascertained justice for the Fallen 44.
“I did not say that like God, I know everything. But it is my responsibility to correct the wrong once it is discovered. Therefore, I am assuring you. We are respecting due process. Those who are liable will be answerable,” he said. (Nel Maribojoc / UNTV News)