“Napakalakas nila at matatapang,” was all he could say of Filipino soldiers, particularly those fighting the Maute group in Marawi City. Inocencio viewed with his wife the static display of the Philippine Army’ s 7th Infantry Division (7ID) at SM City Cabanatuan on Sunday. He, along with many residents of this city and adjoining places, did not only enjoy the display but gave all-out support to the troops.
“Maubos na sana ang mga kalaban na yan pati Abu Sayyaf at matatahimik na ang bansag nang tuluyan,” Inocencio added.
1Lt. Catherine Hapin, head of the Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) said the static display was staged as part of the 7ID’s month-long anniversary celebration. “At ang pinakamahalagang layunin nito ay maipakita ng taumbayan ang kanilang suporta sa mga sundalo na mahigit nang 40 araw na nakikipagbakbakan sa Marawi,” Hapin said.
Beside the M-24, the public also got the opportunity to hold and have photos with M-4, M-14 and M-17 rifles.
Personnel of the Civil Military Operations (CMO) took time explaining personally to spectators the stories behind the pictures which showed both combat and humanitarian activities.
The CMO band also provided the public with free concert of contemporary music.
Black T-shirts marked with “Support Our Troops” sold like a hot cake. The proceeds will benefit Marawi victims.
Hapin expressed appreciation on the people’s eagerness to have photos with soldiers. “Ang tingin ng tao sa mga sundalo ay kuya o tatay. Wala nang takot,” she said.
