Iloilo city: A simple but solemn ceremony marking the 81st Victory Day of the Liberation of Panay, Guimaras, and Romblon during World War II was held at the Balantang Memorial Cemetery National Shrine in Barangay Quintin Salas, Jaro in Iloilo City.
According to Philippines News Agency, a wreath-laying ceremony before the tomb of General Macario Peralta Jr. and his wife, Natividad, the wall of memories, and the tomb of the unknown soldiers was led by Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Tre±as. This was followed by a symposium for veterans, focusing on geriatric care and the benefits they can avail from the Philippine Health Insurance Corp., and a medical mission, which served 86 post-war veterans and their nearest relatives.
Tre±as, in a media interview, expressed that the event was significant because 81 years ago, war veterans fought for freedom against the Japanese invaders. She noted it was even more personal for her as her grandfather, the late Commissioner Efrain Tre±as, was a war veteran and was held captive by the Japanese. 'We are here today, we celebrate their sacrifices for the Ilonggos,' she added.
Meanwhile, Nereo Lujan, chief of the Iloilo provincial government's Public Information and Community Affairs Office, stated that the sacrifices of the veterans should be honored. 'They will serve as a model for the younger generation that if it comes to a point when they need to offer their lives for the country, then they should do it,' he said. Lujan added the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office Field Service Iloilo, which led the celebration in partnership with the provincial government, decided to hold a simple celebration due to the ongoing rehabilitation activities in the shrine.
In a separate media interview, Senator Risa Hontiveros remarked that fighting for the interest of the country in the West Philippine Sea is a way of honoring the heroism of Ilonggos and the people of Panay who fought not only during the Second World War but also in the fight for independence from Spanish colonialism. 'We can do no less than honor their heroism, honor their struggle, honor their victory in the fight for Filipino national interest in the West Philippine Sea,' she said.
Proclamation No. 430, signed by former President Corazon Aquino on July 21, 1989, declared March 18 of every year as Victory Day in Panay and Romblon, and it shall be observed as a non-working special day.
