South Korea forever indebted to RP

MANILA, Philippines - The South Korean government has declared that it will continue to cherish and forever be indebted to the Philippine government for its valuable military contributions during the outbreak of war in the Korean peninsula in 1950.

Responding to a call for military help raised by the South Korean government through the United Nations at the outbreak of the war, the Philippine government dispatched a 7,420-strong force to the troubled peninsula. Of this force, 112 were killed in action, 229 wounded, 16 missing and 41 became prisoners of war.

Among prominent Filipino personalities who saw action in the war were former President Fidel Ramos and his former national security adviser Jose Almonte.

“The peace, prosperity and liberties that the Republic of Korea cherishes today are built on the selfless sacrifices and contributions of the brave servicemen and women of the 21 United Nation allies who served in the Korean war in which the Philippines has participated,” South Korean Counsellor Kiejoo Kim said.

To commemorate the 60th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean war this month, Kim said that their government has scheduled a series of activities in the Philippines as the country’s continuing gesture to the brave Filipino Korean War veterans.

“The Office of the Defense Attache of the Embassy of the Republic of South Korea has prepared a line of events this month,” Kim said, stressing that the Korean people, no matter what, will continue to be a partner, a real friend and an ally of the Filipinos.

The observance will commence on Sept. 23 with a goodwill visit of two Korean Navy ships, a reception for surviving Filipino Korean war veterans on board, a street parade at the Mall of Asia, and Korean cultural performances.

South Korean embassy officials along with Philippine Veterans Affairs Secretary Ernesto Carolina, Army chief Maj. Gen. Arturo Ortiz will lead a wreath laying ceremony at the Korean War Memorial at the Libingan ng mga Bayani at Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City next week.

“The 60th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War this year is very important for all PEFTOK veterans. Perhaps this will be the last celebration for them,” Kim said.