Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Saturday reaffirmed the Philippines' commitment to fostering strong relations with the United States and other international allies to promote peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. At the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of Manila at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial in Taguig City, Marcos said the Philippines will always stand for what is right and will continue to work with other countries in building bridges, forging solutions, and preserving global commons.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos emphasized the importance of diplomacy, dialogue, and cooperation in maintaining a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region. He expressed gratitude for the enduring partnership between the Philippines and the US, highlighting shared values of peace, democracy, and justice. The President noted the commitment of both countries to national security, economic prosperity, and promoting the rights and welfare of their peoples.

Marcos led in honoring those who perished during the Battle of Manila in 1945, recognized as one of the deadliest conflicts in Philippine history. He noted that Philippine-US relations have remained strong through peace and war, natural disasters, and pandemics. Their relationship is anchored on values of peace, democracy, fairness, social progress, and justice. He also mentioned upcoming joint military exercises, emphasizing the robust relationship between the two nations.

US Secretary of the American Battle Monuments Commission Charles Djou remarked on the power of freedom and democracy, noting that the most powerful system known to mankind is a free people willing to fight for freedom. The event commemorated the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of Manila, a significant event in Philippine history and the Pacific theater of World War II.

The Battle of Manila marked the end of Japanese occupation in the Philippines but resulted in the loss of approximately 100,000 Filipino civilians, as well as American and Japanese soldiers. The conflict left the capital in ruins, with historic landmarks destroyed and communities displaced. The Manila American Cemetery serves as a tribute to those who fought and died in WWII, marking the final resting place of over 17,000 American service members and commemorating nearly 36,300 individuals missing in action.