On the occasion of National Heroes Day today, I am reblogging this piece on the successful Marawi campaign to honor the heroes who liberated Marawi from the scourge of the Abu Sayyaf and Maute terrorist groups. In all, 168 military and police forces were killed, while 1,400 plus more were injured in the campaign. Eighty-seven (87) civilians died in the ensuing battles.
With this article, I also wish to highlight the need to revisit the efforts to rebuild Marawi. Marawi is symbolic of the divism that exists among our people at present. A totally rehabilitated and progressive Marawi will show to the world the unity and the strong bond of brotherhood among our people.
After 5 months of blood, sweat and tears, Marawi City is finally free. Marawi’s sons and daughters can now sleep in peace, finally delivered from the terrifying bomb blasts and sniper fire. The skies are blue once again, as though signaling the return of peace and tranquility in the area. The sound of chirping birds have returned. They are back where there used to be just the billowing smoke from crumbling buildings, and the constant stacatto of deadly machine-gun and mortar fire.
The clean-up begins. (courtesy of Rappler.)
Marawi has suffered much from the war. The death and destruction is still evident in many of the streets of Marawi’s central business district. Truly, it was distressing to witness the ravages of war as the government’s elite assault forces stormed in to flush out the dreaded ISIS elements from the city.
Government soldiers stand in front of the ruins of Marawi…
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Color My World 
A big salute to heroes who struggled hard for Marawi’s freedom. Thanks for sharing on this day!!
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Thanks, my friend! There are many glorious stories of the heroic battle to retake Marawi. Here’s a story of an officer who died in the Marawi campaign: https://cbholganza.com/2017/11/30/scout-ranger-captain-rommel-sandovals-promise-walang-iwanan/
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I salute the bravery of Capt Sandoval and his friends. He was not only a valiant soldier but also a fine human being. Thanks for sharing the link.!!
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Thanks for reading, Kaushal. The heroism of our men in uniform needs to be articulated. So that the young people have someone to emulate. Similar to your Kargil Girl, Lt Saxena.
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Yes Charly, you have rightly pointed out such heroic acts need to be documented for posterity to draw inspiration. Like Gunjan on which a movie has been released, and so many others also. Thanks once again.
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Sobrang magulo ang situwasyon doon…
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true, eduardo. pero kelangan pa rin talaga pagtulungan nating lahat, para gumanda ang situwasyun dun.
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Thank you for sharing this post. Am truly humbled by the bravery of those in service, as well as the harrowing experience of those caught in the midst of armed conflicts. Belated Happy National Heroes Day dyan!
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Thanks, Leah. Despite the many distractions, our people continue to soldier on. There is so much to be thankful for, so much goodness that tend to be overlooked during these challenging times.
Thanks for dropping by.
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Whoa.. nice post and here’s to the hero’s of our world everywhere!
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Thank you, Cindy. That means so much to me. I will relay your messages of sympathy to our young heroes.
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You are so welcome. It is so sad and I do appreciate you sharing that. Stay Strong!
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