Remembering their sacrifices

March 18 is Bangsamoro Day.

March 18 is essentially the anniversary of the Jabidah Massacre of 1968 [1]. The latter is considered pivotal in the formation of secessionist movement [2]. This year is the 43th anniversary of this massacre in Corrigedor Island off Manila Bay. About 50 Moro recruits were machine gunned by their military handlers when they refused to participate in Operation Merdeka - a covert military operation to instigate dissent and annex Sabah to the Philippines.

One man, Jibin Arula [3], survived to tell the tale. Despite of court proceedings in both military and civilian courts, the case moved only into the thicket of the unresolved cases in the justice system where it is today [4].

Beyond this massacre, I would like to believe that this is also the day to remember our ancestors, their sacrifices and the fight for freedom. Today it is to pay homage the bravery of Moro individuals who committed parang-sabil, and those in groups who raised the banner of freedom and paid the ultimate sacrifice. Men and women and young who were victims of atrocities, for no fault of their own save to be identified as Moros.

We the present generation are indebted to them. We look back in awe of their courage, patience and determination. The same values we hope to emulate and dedicate to the next generations of Moros until liberty is at hand and the benefits of freedom are enjoyed.

Postscript:
Today, we call on those who are leading in our name, learn to look back and be humbled by the sacrifice of our ancestors. They fought with their lives to enjoy the goods we have today. Have you done the same? What have you done beyond enriching yourselves and turning public office into a family livelihood?

Shame on those who are not humbled by the past and by the misery of the present. If you are not afraid of the present because you are in power, then be afraid of the future when you are all long gone and your deeds scrutinize for what it is worth. Be warned, the future is sure to come as is the curse of the next generations.

The same is true to those in our midst and among our ranks who tend to downplay the significance of this massacre. Remember the massacres committed by the Spaniards in the name of religion and subjugation. Remember the Bud Dajo massacre committed by the American regime. Remember the Jabidah massacre committed by the Philippine military. Remember the recent one in Maguindanao committed by our own. Our history is replete with it. Beyond remembering, what can we do today to make sure this is not committed in our time and in the future?

Sources:
[1] The Corregidor Massacre of 1968
[2] Bangsamoro Day commemorates
[3] Lone survivor recalls Jabidah massacre
[4] Jabidah Massacre