Army at 121: Hail to Marawi heroes

The Philippine Army will commemorate today its 121st founding anniversary at Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City, with the celebration focusing on the heroism and gallantry of Army troops who liberated Marawi City after battling local terrorists for five months.

Philippine Army spokesman Lt. Col. Louie D. Villanueva, said no less than the Commanderin-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), President Duterte will grace today’s celebration as guest of honor and speaker.

Aside from the President, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero and Philippine Army Chief

Lt Gen. Rolando Joselito D. Bautista, are likewise expected to grace the anniversary rites, which wuill carry the theme ‘Serving the People, Securing the Land’.

Villanueva said this year’s anniversary will highlight the Arny’s efforts to bring to an end the fighting in Marawi City which was raided by members of the Maute terrorist group in May last year.

61 soldiers and seven police officers were killed during the Marawi battles.

More than 900 Maute and Isis inspired terrorists, along with 47 civilians also perished.

Villanueva added that today’s activity will be the recognition rites for Army awardees, including some who served in Marawi,

“There are also others who will be recognized in other aspect of their contribution to the Army’s mission,” Villanueva said.

“The highlight of the Philippine Army’s accomplishment is indeed curbing the Marawi rebellion. Aside from that, sustained operations against various threat groups, specifically the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front gained ground as it translated to significant number of neutralized enemy, either through armed encounters or surrender,” Villanueva said.