Two years after the Mamasapano incident, the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN) reiterated its call for justice for PO3 Omar Nacionales and the other 43 SAF commandos who died in the Mamasapano gunbattle with Muslim rebels.
Starting with a flag raising ceremony and a short prayer, hundreds of provincial police officers, local officials, government employees, as well the bereaved family of PO3 Nacionales attended the simple commemoration rites held in front of the Provincial Capitol in Laoag City last Jan. 26.
Governor Imee R. Marcos conveyed anew her condolences through Provincial Senior Board Member Matthew Marcos Manotoc emphasizing: “we are one with President Duterte’s call that justice must be found and reinvestigation must be made and there must be sense of accountability and responsibility.”
During the first anniversary, Governor Marcos called for the Ilocanos to be inspired by the heroism of the fallen 44.
The mother of PO3 Nacionales, Florencia, said “Alam ko at umaasa akong muling mabubuksan ang kaso at mapapanagot ang mga may sala.”
Forty-four flags flew in front of the Provincial Capitol as tribute to the fallen soldiers.
Governor Marcos assured the bereaved family that PGIN will continue to extend assistance to the Nacionales’ family.
“Nagpapasalamat kami kay Governor Imee at sa PGIN sa walang sawang pagbibigay ng tulong sa amin. Lalong lalo na sa pag-papaaral sa naiwang kapatid ni Omar,” PO3 Nacionales’ mother said.
The sister of PO3 Nacionales, a third-year BS Business Administration student, was assured to land a job after graduating.
“I think this will be a continuous process of helping them, ensuring at least some compensation to offset their loss,” SPm Manotoc said. —(Ma. Rhona Ysabel B. Daoang, PGIN-CMO)
