By Dominic I. Sanchez
ZAMBOANGA CITY – A top military brass reassured the Zamboanguenos on the night of the Zamboanga siege anniversary (September 9), that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will remain and defend the city amidst anxieties of a possible attack a year after.
Lt. Gen. Felicito Virgilio Trinidad, Jr., who represented AFP Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Gregorio Catapang quoted, “rest assured that your AFP will continue to be here in Zamboanga and in the adjacent areas to protect the people.”
Gen. Trinidad, according to Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar personally manned the defense strategy during the siege.
“Este noche, ta rindi quita gracias con el Armed Forces que ya dale servicio na maga residente,” (We express our gratitude to the Armed Forces who served and protected the residents) said Mayor Climaco-Salazar.
On Tuesday, the night of the Zamboanga siege anniversary, government officials and employees, police, military, academe, religious sector, and local residents gathered around City Hall and Plaza Rizal for a solemn candle-lighting ceremony dubbed “Luz de Ezperanza” (Light of Hope). Residents paid tribute to those who have fallen in defense of the city, including the young officers and men of the Armed Forces.
“We honor both the fallen and living heroes that have stood by in defense of our city,” said Mayor Climaco-Salazar.
Prior to September 9 this year, numerous scare text messages were circulating, allegedly that of a looming attack in Zamboanga City. Residents have expressed their anxiety and concern.
“Sobra saltao kame si ta recivi maga ansina clase de text. Hinde na gayod quita puede ase de nohay lang cay ya socede ya se del otro año,” (We panic whenever we receive these messages. We can’t remain apathetic towards them since we have already experienced the siege last year) said one concerned resident.
The mayor has continuously appealed to residents to be “calm but vigilant always,” and to report and validate these messages with the authorities.