‘Eternal flame’ to rise at Crame

MANILA, Philippines - The 44 Special Action Force (SAF) commandos slaughtered in Mamasapano, Maguindanao on Jan. 25 will be honored with an “eternal flame” along EDSA in front of Camp Crame in Quezon City.

An eternal flame is a lamp or torch that burns continuously for an indefinite period, usually to commemorate a person or event of national significance.

Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina, Philippine National Police officer-in-charge, approved the installation of the eternal flame outside Gate 1 of Camp Crame, headquarters of the PNP.

“Although their mortal bodies decay, the heroism and valor exhibited in their actions will forever burn in the hearts of those who were left behind,” he said yesterday.

“Policemen are most of the time exposed to danger, particularly in performing their mandated mission to enforce the law, prevent and solve crimes, maintain peace and order, and ensure public safety and security with the active support of the community. Along with the delivery of these duties, there are personnel who sacrificed their lives for peace and security of the country,” Espina added.

A number of civilian groups and foundations, as well as colleagues of the fallen police commandos, have volunteered to shoulder the construction cost.

The eternal flame will bear the inscriptions “Bayaning Pulis,” “We salute our gallant heroes” and “You will always be remembered.”

Another eternal flame containing the names of the fallen SAF commandos will be put up in Camp Crame.