Duterte honors heroism of Filipino troops in Korean War

FILE: President Rodrigo Roa Duterte updates the nation on the government’s efforts in addressing the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) at the Malago Clubhouse in Malacañang on March 30, 2020. KING RODRIGUEZ/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

MANILA – President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday paid tribute to the more than 7,000 Filipino soldiers who joined the Korean War seven decades ago.

Duterte said the bravery and heroism of Filipino troops during the war led to the establishment of “special ties” between the Philippines and South Korea.

“Today, we honor the Filipinos and soldiers of all nations who fought valiantly in that war. There is no other way. We must recognize bravery is not easy to muster.

We must remember heroism very seldom seen, and we must reaffirm values so sacred. They form the bedrock of our special bilateral ties,” he said in his message for the 70th anniversary of the Korean War.

The Korean War started on June 25, 1950, when North Korea attempted to invade South Korea.

The Philippines sent about 7,240 members of the Philippine Expeditionary Force to Korea (PEFTOK) when war broke out at the Korean Peninsula.

It was the first Asian country to respond to the call of the United Nations to help South Korea fight a massive invasion by North Korean communist forces.

During the war, Filipino troops from the 10th, 14th, 19th, 20th, and 1st Battalion Combat Teams fought with the armed forces of South Korea and allied nations against the troops of North Korea and its ally China.

Manila is currently enjoying a solid friendship with Seoul due to the PEFTOK’s sacrifices.

Duterte hailed PEFTOK’s participation in the Korean War, saying it only demonstrates that Filipinos always have the dedication to fight for independence.

“Seven decades ago, more than 7,000 young Filipino soldiers joined allies in the Korean War.

From the great Battle of Yultong to the Battle of Eerie Hill, Filipinos never faltered in defending freedom and the democratic way of life,” he said.

The President also called for solidarity anew, as he recognized the pressing challenges that the world continues to face today.

“As the world faces emerging challenges yet, let the memory of those who fell in (the) Korean War inspire us all to rise together jointly in solidarity,” he said.

Duterte’s latest call came as the Philippines and other countries continue to look for ways to address the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

As of June 25, the Philippines has reported 33,069 confirmed Covid-19 cases, with 8,910 recoveries and 1,212 deaths.