TV network to hold benefit concert for kin of fallen heroes of Marawi

MANILA, Philippines — A benefit concert intended to support the families of the fallen heroes who fought in Marawi is slated on Tuesday evening.

The benefit concert titled “Songs for Heroes 3” would be hosted by television network UNTV, which also organized the event along with the Church of God International. It would be held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena at 7 p.m. on Tuesday.

The concert would recognize the sacrifices of the soldiers and police personnel who fought in the five-month-long siege of Marawi City. It would benefit the families of government forces killed-in-action during the battle.

The organizers of the musical event are expecting to raise up to P6 million in cash from the sales and pledges of the attendees and sponsors.

Armed Forces of the Philippines Public Affairs Office Chief Marine Col. Edgard Arevalo said among those who would perform in the concert are military talents and bands

“Our homegrown talents will join Original Filipino Music artists such Kris Lawrence, Darren Espanto, Jason Dy, Richard Reynoso, and Jamie Rivera, among others,”  Arevalo said.

The benefit concert is a follow-up on the first two “Song for the Heroes” shows held in 2015. The previous concert supported the families of the slain 44 Special Action Force of the Philippine National Police during the Mamasapano clash.

Meanwhile, AFP Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero welcomed the continued support for the government forces.

“Your Armed Forces of the Philippines is fully committed to fulfil our mandate, but we also need you as the battle that we are in entails so much the cooperative involvement of the civilian sector. And knowing that our sacrifices are duly recognized, we are strengthened by the support given by the people we have sworn to protect, and with this, we cannot thank you enough,” Guerrero said.

“This inspiration draws us to a firm resolve to work harder, and remain as your most reliable AFP,”  he added. — Rosette Adel