In a heartfelt tribute, the town of Kabayan in Benguet province commemorated the bravery of the ‘SAF 44’ on January 24, 2025, a day before the national remembrance. The event honored local hero Police Officer 2 Peterson Carap, one of the 44 Special Action Force (SAF) members who perished in a mission in Maguindanao a decade ago.
The ceremony took place at Eddet Elementary School, featuring a wreath-laying, a gun salute, and performances by students. Kabayan’s Acting Vice Mayor Rex Alwin Aquisan emphasized the importance of these annual commemorations in educating the youth about Carap’s sacrifice and the value of selflessness and national service.
The ‘SAF 44’ operation, which included 13 members from the Cordillera region, successfully neutralized international terrorist Zulkifli Abdhir, known as Marwan. However, the team faced an ambush during their withdrawal, resulting in the tragic loss of the officers.
In recognition of Carap’s heroism, Kabayan declared January 25 as PO2 Peterson Indongan Carap Fallen Hero Day through Proclamation 01-2015. The proclamation aims to keep Carap’s memory alive, especially for his son, Arajil Frank Bolinget Carap, and to celebrate Carap’s dedication to serving God, the Filipino people, and the cause of peace and democracy.
Carap’s service extended to the Zamboanga siege in 2013, showcasing his commitment to national security. President Rodrigo Duterte later honored the ‘SAF 44’ by declaring January 25 as the Day of National Remembrance through Proclamation No. 164 in 2017.