AFP joins ‘Araw ng Kagitingan’ commemoration

PNA photo

MANILA — As the country commemorates the 76th anniversary of the Fall of Bataan, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) joins the observance of “Araw ng Kagitingan” (Day of Valor) and salutes soldiers who valiantly defended the nation against foreign occupation during the World War II.

“We remember the sacrifices of our veterans, their bravery, and their selfless dedication to the country’s defense. Through their gallantry, we were able to show the determination of Filipinos to stand against overwhelming odds,” AFP public affairs office chief, Lt. Col. Emmanuel Garcia said.

Underarmed and meagerly supplied American and Filipino forces fighting in the Bataan frontlines were forced to surrender on April 9, 1942 after 93 days of resistance against the superior Japanese force equipped with then the latest war equipment.

Some 60,000 Filipino and American troops were taken prisoners of war by the Japanese. They were made to walk some 112 kilometers from Mariveles, Bataan to Capas, Tarlac under the scorching sun with no food and water for days in what is known the world over as the “Death March.”

The AFP public affairs chief also lauded the current crop of Filipino soldiers for their courage and selfless service in recent events against terrorists and violent extremists.

“The deeds of heroism and ideals of our world war veterans will always be inculcated in the minds of our current soldiers who exhibit in their own actions the same fervor and willingness to defend our country and our people,” Garcia said.