Members of the Philippine Army鈥檚 Security and Escort Battalion dressed in gala rayadillo honor war veterans during the commemoration of the 82nd Day of Valor at the Mt. Samat National Shrine in Pilar, Bataan on April 9, 2024.
MANILA, Philippines 鈥� As the nation remembered the heroes and heroines of Bataan on the 82nd Day of Valor (Araw ng Kagitingan), the military urged Filipinos to stand united against threats to the country.
Armed Forces of the Philippines chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. joined President Ferdinand 鈥淏ongbong鈥� Marcos Jr. in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Mt. Samat National Shrine in Pilar, Bataan.
Brawner said Filipinos should reflect on the soldiers鈥� sacrifices by cherishing the principles of democracy, peace, and freedom 鈥渇or which our forefathers fought so valiantly.鈥�
鈥淟et us honor their legacy by standing united in the face of challenges and working tirelessly towards a brighter future for our beloved country,鈥� Brawner said in a statement Tuesday, April 9.
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鈥淲e remember with profound gratitude the sacrifices made by our brave soldiers who gallantly defended our nation鈥檚 honor in the face of adversity in past wars and armed conflicts.鈥�
鈥淭heir selflessness and commitment to duty serve as an enduring inspiration to all Filipinos, reminding us of the true meaning of valor and patriotism,鈥� Brawner also said.
Defense chief Gilberto Teodoro Jr. likewise paid his respects to those who fought for the country鈥檚 freedom, sovereignty, and peace.
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鈥淢ay their bravery serve as an inspiration [for] the unity of the people and in responding to the challenges of the times towards a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Bagong Pilipinas,鈥� Teodoro said in a statement Tuesday.
Also known as Bataan Day, April 9 commemorates Filipino and American forces鈥� last stand until they were forced to surrender to the Japanese invaders during World War II.
Bataan Day first became a national holiday in 1961 through Republic Act No. 3022.