Summary
Highlights
On January 24, 2015, approximately 390 SAF commandos embarked on a highly classified mission, Oplan Exodus, to apprehend two of the world's most wanted terrorists, Abdul Basit Usman and Zulkifli Bin Hir, alias Marwan. Marwan, a Malaysian bomb-making specialist linked to various attacks in Southeast Asia, was the primary target. Despite nine previous unsuccessful attempts to capture Marwan, SAF officials were confident this mission would yield a different outcome.
The SAF commandos were divided into Special Action Companies (SACs). The 84th SAC, or 'Seaborne' (41 commandos), was tasked with capturing Marwan and Usman, leading the advance. The 55th SAC (36 commandos) acted as a blocking force, providing support for Seaborne. Over 300 additional SAF commandos formed support groups. The mission faced immediate challenges due to unfamiliar marshland terrain, deep rivers, and the presence of armed groups like the BIFF and MILF. Crucially, the MILF, currently in peace talks with the government and operating under a ceasefire, were not informed of the classified operation.
Oplan Exodus commenced around 11 PM on January 24. While navigating the challenging terrain, the Seaborne team made minor deviations from the planned route, causing delays for the 55th SAC and support groups. Despite improvised traps around Marwan's hut, he was neutralized, and a DNA sample was taken. Usman, however, managed to escape. The successful neutralization of Marwan was signaled with 'Mike one, bingo.' However, the victory was short-lived as the sound of gunshots alerted other armed groups in the area, and Seaborne found themselves surrounded.
As Seaborne attempted to link up with the delayed 55th SAC for extraction, they became encircled. The 55th SAC, approaching through cornfields, also encountered armed groups and formed a defensive perimeter. By dawn, 77 SAF commandos were surrounded by over 1,000 combined MILF, BIFF, and other Private Armed Groups. Calls for reinforcement were made, but other SAF companies encountered gunfire and retreated. SAF Director Getulio Napeñas Jr. informed the Army's 6th Infantry Division Commander about the operation, but initial reports from the Army commander indicated no request for immediate reinforcement. Despite this, a reinforcement team was sent after news of the firefight spread, and the MILF was notified, though the AFP Chief of Staff ordered his men not to engage to protect ongoing peace talks.
The firefight lasted for hours until white phosphorus was deployed at 5:30 PM for cover, leading to the fighting stopping by 6 PM as the MILF announced their withdrawal. The search for the 77 commandos began shortly after. Investigations revealed that former President Benigno Aquino III allegedly allowed his suspended friend, former PNP Chief Alan Purisima, to control the operation, sidelining the official with authority, Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina. MILF denied accusations of harboring terrorists, claiming Marwan was in BIFF territory. Autopsy reports showed many SAF members received fatal headshots, suggesting close-range killings. The MILF conducted their own investigation, claiming unawareness of the operation and that SAF commandos fired first, leading to debates over whether it was a 'mis-encounter' or a 'massacre.'
The tragic events of January 25, 2015, where 44 SAF members perished, left an indelible mark on the Filipino people. The incident sparked outrage and unanswered questions regarding responsibility, accountability, and justice. Despite the controversies and blame games, the bravery and sacrifice of the 'Fallen 44' are remembered and honored.