JOLO, Sulu – In a solemn gathering of remembrance and unity, the 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division of the Philippine Army commemorated the 4th anniversary of the tragic C-130 crash with a wreath-laying ceremony and interfaith prayer service held on July 4, 2025, at the Alakdan Heroes Monument, Headquarters 11ID, Barangay Busbus.
The ceremony was led by Brigadier General Christopher C. Tampus, Assistant Division Commander and General Officer-In-Charge of 11ID, joined by military officers, enlisted personnel, civilian human resource staff, and survivors of the ill-fated flight. The event served not only as a memorial to the lives lost but also as a moment of reflection on courage, sacrifice, and service to the nation.
In a message delivered during the interfaith prayer service, Brig. Gen. Tampus spoke on behalf of Major General Leonardo I. Peña, Commander of the 11ID and Joint Task Force Orion, highlighting the enduring legacy of the fallen:
“We may never repay the lives lost in service, but we can honor them—with gratitude and remembrance. To those who gave their lives, those who survived, those who responded without hesitation, those who ensured our security, and the civilians who stood beside us—your courage will never be forgotten. And to every member of the 11ID, let us recognize and honor our shared sacrifices. We are all part of this mission, and together, we continue to serve with dedication and heart.”
The C-130 incident, which occurred in 2021, remains one of the deadliest aviation disasters in the history of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. It claimed the lives of brave personnel who were deployed to support peace and development efforts in Sulu—a mission that continues to this day, guided by their memory.
Simultaneous to the activities at headquarters, a community gathering took place in Sitio Bauno, Barangay Bangkal, Patikul, Sulu—one of the areas directly impacted by the crash. Families of the fallen, survivors, and local residents participated in a quiet remembrance ceremony. In a gesture of solidarity and support, the 15th Civil-Military Operations Battalion (15CMOBn), in partnership with the Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff for CMO, G7, and the 1103rd Infantry “Kalis” Brigade, distributed sacks of rice and toys to the affected families.
This annual commemoration stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Alakdan Division—not only to preserve the legacy of their fallen comrades but to continue fostering peace and stability across Sulu and the broader region.
As the Philippine flag fluttered at half-mast and prayers echoed across the Alakdan camp and surrounding communities, the message was clear: the memory of those who gave their lives lives on in every act of service, every step toward peace, and in the hearts of the soldiers and civilians they left behind.