Lost dream

First Lt. Vladimir Maninang, 27, witnessed life’s hardship even at a young age. As a child, he helped his father in tending their farm and raising their pigs to make a living for his poor family.

He had been a consistent honor student in school. After he graduated from high school he had been accepted in the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) and subsequently became a member of the PMA Maragtas Class of 2007.

After four years of military service, he planned to settle down with his girlfriend. His ‘pamamahinkan’ (traditional engagement ceremony of Filipinos) was set Sunday.

But all the plans he had created for years for his own family were all gone after the bloody clash between the government forces and the Moro rebels which ended the life of 19 soldiers, including his.

Today, the whole country has been mourning the death of these soldiers who sacrificed and offered their lives for our country. Let us not forget these brave and dedicated soldiers who are victims of decade-long conflict in our country.

To 1Lt Maninang and 18 others, I salute you sir! You are all indeed worthy to be called our modern heroes!