On January 22nd, my husband, as the Chief of Supply Management Division at the Directorate for Logistics of the Philippine National Police, embarked on a significant journey—a 12-day official trip from New Delhi, India to the Kansas, United States. His mission? To oversee the pre-delivery inspection of the 2,675 all-purpose vests for the men in uniform, as well as conduct crucial functional testing. He was scheduled to return home on February 3rd, but destiny had other plans.

Colonel Peri Malabed dedicated almost 29 years of his life to serving our country through the Philippine National Police. A “Lakan” and member of KABALIKAT class of ‘98 of the Philippine National Police Academy. A proud veteran of the United Nations peacekeeping missions, he played vital roles in both the United Nations Mission in Timor-Leste in 2006 and the United Nations Mission in Liberia in 2009. Peri earned his Masters Degree in Development Management from the esteemed Asian Institute of Management in 2011. Yet, beyond his impressive resume, he was so much more—a passionate wanderer who reveled in biking through remote landscapes, a devoted Christian who shared the teachings of God with his fellow officers, a caring son, a supportive brother, a nurturing father, and, above all, a faithful and loving husband.

However, on January 29th, tragedy struck, and our world shattered. A phone call from a detective in Washington, DC delivered the heart-wrenching news: my husband was one of the victims of a devastating mid-air collision.

We had so much to look forward to in February—a month filled with love and celebration. We were on the brink of marking our 5th anniversary on the 8th, my birthday on the 10th, Valentine’s Day on the 14th, and his birthday on the 18th. Instead of joy, those dates became a painful reminder as we gathered in Washington, DC, to repatriate my husband’s lifeless body.

And then there was our three-year-old daughter, blissfully unaware of the profound loss. She had been eagerly anticipating her dad's return, excitedly asking for the makeup set she wanted him to bring home. I watch her play as I write this, knowing that her father's embrace and the promise of little surprises were now lost forever.

His passing was not just a personal loss; it was a profound blow to the Philippine National Police, a community that relied on his unwavering dedication and commitment. Peri was honored with two prestigious awards—the PNP Distinguished Service Medal and the PNP Outstanding Achievement Medal—recognizing his exceptional service and sacrifice. His legacy will forever inspire those who knew him and those who continue to serve in his footsteps.

To my beloved husband,

Lablab,

Life without you feels so different—the house is quieter, roads are rougher, and your favorite wine is a lot more bitter. Our little one still holds on to the hope of your return, despite my reassurances that you're now in the embrace of God. It’s really devastating. It breaks my heart each day, but amidst the sorrow, I want to express my gratitude for everything you’ve given me. You’ve left behind a legacy that inspires me to keep moving forward. As I always say, ride easy, my love. The roads of Heaven are never-ending, so is my love for you. I love you with the love of the Lord.