Baguio City- Local officials and hundreds of veterans commemorated the Araw ng Kagitingan Wednesday with a simple but meaningful program at the Veterans Park Harrison Road.
The theme of this year’s event was “Ipunla ang kagitingan sa Kabataan, Ipunla ang Beterano ng Kinabukasan,” celebrated this 9th of April at the Veterans Park, Harrison Road.
Surviving veterans of the United States Armed Forces in the Philippines – Northern Luzon (USAFIP-NL) and city officials led the wreath-laying ceremonies in honor of the country’s fallen heroes during World War II.
Rep. Nicasio M. Aliping, Jr., Mayor Mauricio G. Domogan and Vice Mayor Edison R. Bilog delivered their respective messages recognizing the heroism, gallantry and bravery of the country’s fallen heroes in risking their lives for the country’s independence.
Bilog, in his message stressed out to all young generation today to keep in mind that our veterans, should serve as an inspiration in our country. He also added that, “we should be one and have a unity for all.” For his part, Mayor Domogan said that “we are here today, as we gather in this simple event to give honor to all soldiers, veterans and to those who serve our country and those who fought during the Japanese War.” Meanwhile, Aliping added that “Heroes don’t cry and Heroes don’t die” the Fall of Bataan should be used by the present and future generations of Filipinos to preserve and protect the country’s independence and an inspiration in striving for what would be the best for the future.
Araw ng Kagitingan committee chairperson head Councilor Peter Fianza said that the event is now mandated as a one week event celebrated which started on April 5-11, 2015, “ ang celebration dito sa Veterans Park is more than 20 years na.”
The event was participated by 30 veterans and 20 from the sons and daughters of the veterans who pledged their support to the sustained celebration of the historical event.
Veteran Lt. Eduard M. Peralta who fought on the year 1943- 1945 since the Fall of Bataan in Corregidor said that, “I’m a little bit important because I’m a Veteran, days like this is a very important day because we conquer the day where we are in war.”