WATCH: PBA honors fallen Marawi heroes on Independence Day

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Basketball Association paid tribute to the soldiers and police killed in Marawi City clashes, right before Game 2 of the 2017 Commissioner’s Cup semifinals between the Star Hotshots and the San Miguel Beermen.

The league honored the soldiers and police killed in action by unfurling the Philippine flag on Monday, June 12 – Independence Day – at the Mall of Asia Arena.

“In celebration of Philippine independence today, the PBA recognizes the heroism of our patriots, past and present, in preserving our freedom, democracy, and pursuit of self-reliance,” said the league in its tribute, which was read over the arena speakers before a moment of silence.

“In the context of today’s unfolding events, we pay tribute to the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police for their tireless efforts in keeping our country safe and protected from dangerous elements, for the soldiers and military personnel who have given their lives for our country and for those who champion the cause of freedom.” 

Players, coaches, and officials from both teams, as well as league officials including commissioner Chito Narvasa and media bureau chief Willie Marcial all held on to the giant flag at center court during the tribute.

Members of the broadcast team were also seen holding the flag while the crowd stood in respect.

On television, TV5 showed the photos and names of the 58 soldiers and police who died in the clashes.

Saludo para sa mga bayani ng Marawi! pic.twitter.com/aUmuqoSao5

— Sports5 (@Sports5PH) June 12, 2017

For the first time since the Marcos dictatorship, the Philippines is commemorating Independence Day with part of the country – Mindanao – under martial law.

Below is the full list of names of the fallen heroes in Marawi City.

1. 1LT Raymond M Abad
2. 1LT John Frederick S Savellano
3. SSgt Joven Q Triston
4. Sgt Simeon I Plares
5. Cpl John Romulo C Garcia
6. Cpl Jobert O Cofino
7. Pfc Eddie C Cardona Jr
8. Pvt Bernie Jhon B Lunas
9. Pfc Gener C Tinangag
10. Sgt Meynard O Pegarido
11. Sgt Miguelito A Abao
12. Cpl Rolan H Sumagpang
13. Pfc Marvin Russel D Gomez
14. PInsp Edwin V Placido PNP
15. 1Lt John Carl C Morales (Inf) PA
16. SPI Fredie Solar PNP
17. 2Lt Mcglenn Z Abuyabor (Inf) PA
18. TSg Jessie B Santos (Cav) PA
19. TSg Aldrin Dinglasan PN (M)
20. SSg Julhabir J Dakkay (Inf) PA
21. SSg Joseph P Villanueva (Inf) PA
22. Sgt Marlon V Baldovino (Cav) PA
23. Sgt Eric Jason J Coros (Inf) PA
24. Sgt Asah A Sakiran (Infantry) PA
25. Sgt Throlen R Lago (Inf) PA
26. Sgt Rudy A Espelimburgo PN (M)
27. Cpl Benito G Serrano (Inf) PA
28. Cpl Elmer M Anno (Inf) PA
29. Cpl Tahiruddin K Salahuddin (Inf) PA
30. Cpl Philip G Apao (Inf) PA
31. Cpl Aliyasir I Abdulla (Inf) PA
32. Cpl Ricky A Asan (Inf) PA
33. Cpl Christopher C Dela Cruz (Inf) PA
34. Cpl Nilo R Donato Jr (Inf) PA
35. Cpl Reymund A Paracuelles (CE) PA
36. Cpl Johva M Aquino (Inf) PA
37. Pfc Eldon C Rogador (Inf) PA
38. Pfc William B Tuanda Jr (Inf) PA
39. Pfc Bermilou P Pardillo (Inf) PA
40. Pfc Dhan Ryan A Bayot (Inf) PA
41. Pfc Angelo A Estores Jr (Inf) PA
42. Pfc Dondee D Orboda (Inf) PA
43. Pfc Elmer D Bueno (Inf) PA
44. Pfc Melvin S Raton (Inf) PA
45. Pfc Edmond D Principe (Inf) PA
46. Pfc Anthony C Capulot (Inf) PA
47. Pfc Kevin E Sisiban (Inf) PA
48. Pfc Arhanie O Ampalo (Inf) PA
49. Pvt Jessrael O Butalina (Inf) PA
50. Pfc Reymar E Carloto (Inf) PA
51. Pfc Rowee M Montalban (Inf) PA
52. Pvt Marlo P Rota (Inf) PA
53. Pvt Junie Berth R Purlas (Inf) PA
54. Pvt Roel M Cabonita (Inf) PA
55. Pvt Ramon L Montejo (Inf) PA
56. Pvt Saed Abdul Rahman H Palada (Inf) PA
57. Pvt Mark Daryl A Parba (Cav) PA
58. PO1 Junaid S Mama, PNP

– Rappler.com