Zamboanga City siege heroes remembered

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines - The city remembered the local heroes, including the fallen soldiers, during the siege as it joined in the commemoration of the National Heroes Day.

"As we commemorate National Heroes, we emulate CCC (Cesar Cortez Climaco) who as mayor died on duty serving people. In recent months, we honor modern day persons whose dedication surpassed duty to save people,” City Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar said.

Among the modern heroes Salazar cited were members of the security forces killed and about a hundred wounded during the 23-day siege staged by followers of Moro National Liberation Front founding chairman Nur Misuari on September 9 last year.

The lady excutive also recognized Dr. Kelly Geronimo of the Philippine National Red Cross, who was hit by a shrapnel while rescuing hostages during the siege. Three days after hospital confinement, she went back on duty.

The mayor also cited Boy Malicay, a city government employee who freed an armor tank that was stuck at the height of the siege.

“All the countless citizens who did acts of courage responding to those in need, helping internally displaced persons, feeding troops even today raising funds and those who build homes to build back a better Zamboanga City are heroes,” Salazar said.

Salazar said the recognition is also part of the forthcoming commemoration of the first year anniversary of the siege.