CEBU, Philippines — The Visayas Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines lauded the war veterans during the celebration of the 81st anniversary of Araw ng Kagitingan on April 9, 2023.
Yesterday, the Visayas Command held an event at the Activity Center in Ayala Center Cebu where they had an exhibit that showed the heroism done by war veterans as well as soldiers who showed good deeds.
The event was attended by war veterans who are members of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines. They said they were happy since the government giving importance to their achievements and sacrifices to defend the country from conquerors.
Sotero Librero, a 101-year-old Japan-US War Veteran, said he was happy that their sacrifice was given importance.
Meanwhile, 78-year-old Vietnam War veteran Leonardo Batayola has a fresh memory in recounting his experiences during the war. He said, one time while they were eating they were bombed by the enemies.
Veteran Luciano Wagas, 98, said that he has nothing to ask from the government since the government is doing the right thing for the war veterans.
Major Joe Patrick Martinez, Group Commander of the 3rd Civil Relations Group of the Visayas Command, said it is just appropriate to honor the World War II veterans.
"Sabi ko if it is not this year baka hindi na natin sila makakausap so we also learn na konti nalang yung archive natin to learn their ano ba yung nagawa nila so this is the opportunity for us to have this moment na sila mismo magkwento sa atin," said Martinez. — GMR (FREEMAN)