MANILA, Philippines: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday urged Filipinos to "to build a kinder and gentler society" as homage to those who laid down their lives for the country.

The chief executive made the statement as he led the National Day of Remembrance rites for the 44 Special Action Force (SAF) troopers who perished in Mamasapano, Maguindanao nine years ago.

"It is now up to us, who lived, who benefitted from their full measure of devotion to duty, to build a kinder and gentler society, wherein those they have left behind can live in peace and prosperity. That is the mission they have left us to pursue when they did not return from their last patrol," Marcos said following the wreath-laying ceremony held at the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) in Silang, Cavite.

"In their last hours, in that place of honor, we can draw many important lessons. The lesson such as to put nation before self. To display courage under fire. To resolve to forge ahead. To never give up. We would also be disrespecting their memory if we give quarters to those who terrorize our people," he added.

The President also urged the citizenry to do their part in ensuring the peace the gallant policemen fought for will not be in vain "by never letting down the flag they fought for."

"We would be devaluing their valor if we cede our territory to those who trespass upon it. Be worthy stewards of their devotion to duty, their fidelity to the oath, and their love of country. Be the patriots and professionals who are driven by the same fearlessness and fortitude that the SAF 44 had shown," he said.

"My countrymen, the defiant stand of the Brave 44 still echoes today. It is a clarion call for unity and action against the challenges we might face. Let our reverence for these men be always accompanied by a deeper reflection, so we too can summon the fight in ourselves to build a better future for our nation," he added.

The 44 SAF commandos were killed in a pre-dawn firefight with extremists in a remote village in Mamasapano in Maguindanao on Jan. 25, 2015.

Tagged as "Oplan Exodus," the police operation successfully neutralized Malaysian bomb maker and Jemaah Islamiyah leader Zulkifli Bin Hir, alias Marwan.

Although their mission was accomplished, the members of the PNP's elite force were ambushed by guerillas from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), and other private armed groups.

It was on Feb. 21, 2017 when then president Rodrigo Duterte issued Proclamation 164, declaring January 25 of every year as the Day of National Remembrance for the fallen 44.