Lost dreams in Basilan

First Lt. Vladimir Maninang, 27, witnessed life’s hardship even at a young age. As a child, he helped his father tend their farm and raise pigs to provide for his poor family. He was a consistent honor student in school. After graduating from high school he was admitted to the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) and subsequently became a member of the PMA Maragtas Class of 2007.

After four years of military service, he had decided to marry his girlfriend. His “pamamanhikan” (traditional engagement ceremony of Filipinos) had been set.

But all the plans he had built for years to have a family of his own vanished in a flash in that bloody clash between government forces and the MILF rebels last Oct. 18 in Basilan, which also snuffed out the dreams of 18 other soldiers.

Today, the whole country is mourning the death of these soldiers who sacrificed and offered their lives for our country. Let us not forget these brave and dedicated soldiers.

Lieutenant Maninang, I salute you and your 18 comrades. You are our modern heroes!

—ANGELO SAN JUAN,

angelo.sanjuan80@yahoo.com