Manila: Philippine Army (PA) commander Lt. Gen. Roy Galido has called on Filipinos to continue emulating and honoring the sacrifices of Filipino veterans to preserve the country's freedom and sovereignty Galido made the call during the Sunrise Ceremony marking the start of the 2025 Filipino Veterans Week and the 83rd "Araw ng Kagitingan" on April 5, the Army said in a news release on Monday.
According to Philippines News Agency, Galido emphasized the importance of remembering the sacrifices made by veterans. "To the present and younger generation, I call on you to ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten. The responsibility of safeguarding these intangible treasures now rests upon our shoulders. Let us honor their legacy by honoring the values they fought to preserve," he said during the event at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier inside the Libingan Ng Mga Bayani in Taguig City.
Galido further urged the citizens to nurture a new generation of heroes. "Let us make [the veterans] proud by nurturing a new generation of heroes, brave, resilient and loyal to the nation and our people," he added. This year's observance is anchored on the theme 'Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas.'
The week-long events include the 83rd "Araw ng Kagitingan" Commemoration on April 9 at Mount Samat National Shrine, Pilar, Bataan, led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., featuring a wreath-laying ceremony at the "Dambana ng Kagitingan" to honor Filipino and American World War II veterans. This event will have limited capacity, but the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office will provide a live broadcast for public viewing.
On April 10, the Joint Tribute to All Filipino Heroes and "Paggunita sa Capas" will take place at 7:30 a.m. at the Capas National Shrine, Tarlac, followed by the Sunset Ceremony on April 11 at 4 p.m. at the "Libingan ng mga Bayani", which will include a Mass and a reflection program.
The Faces of Valor historical exhibit will be at the University of Santo Tomas from April 21 to 30. Throughout Philippine Veterans Week, veterans may also avail of free LRT and MRT rides, with details to be announced by the Department of Transportation.
