103-year-old war veteran honored

BALANGA CITY, Philippines – A 103-year-old World War II veteran was among those honored by the provincial government of Bataan during the Parangal sa mga Beterano at Tanghal ng Kagitingan on Tuesday at the Bataan People’s Center here.

The activity was part of the province’s commemoration of the 84th Day of Valor that culminates today with a program to be attended by President Marcos at the historic Mount Samat in Pilar, Bataan.

Born on Sept. 12, 1922, Onofre Bugay of Barangay Sta. Lucia, Samal is still generally healthy, except for being hard of hearing and requiring assistance while walking.

Bugay, who has eight children and 25 grandchildren, worked as a farmer and tricycle driver after the Pacific War.

The Provincial Information Office reported that Bugay was among 13 living World War 2 veterans in Bataan who were honored.  

Also in attendance at the parangal were surviving spouses and families of WW2 veterans. National Historical Commission of the Philippines director Carminda Arevalo, Gov. Jose Enrique Garcia III and Rep. Albert Garcia all paid tribute to the heroism and sacrifices of the veterans.

The affair at the giant Bataan People’s Center also featured stage players from 10 municipalities and one city, showcasing selected portions of important events in the country’s history.