To honor the gallantry of World War II veterans during the death march in 1942, some 1,000 Filipino soldiers, volunteers and former US Navy Seals joined the annual Freedom Trail held on March 1-2 in celebration of Veterans Week and 77th year of Bataan Death March.
The event is a multi-project of The Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB) with support of Department of National Defense (DND) which aims to uphold the legacy of camaraderie, bravery, and sacrifice made by Filipino and American freedom fighters 77 years ago.
The Freedom Trail is a two-day march starting from KM Zero in Mariveles, Bataan covering the 140 km original route of death march all the way to Capas National Shrine in Tarlac.
“These events, which challenged runners through gruesome and gritty courses, are our way of remembering, honoring, and emulating the bravery and sacrifices of our World War II veterans during one of the darkest chapters of our country’s history. People younger than me should not forget this . The youth of today may have this idea that war is a videogame and it is not,” former finance secretary anf PVB chairman Dr. Roberto de Ocampo, OBE said.
DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana added the celebration of the Fall of Bataan is a celebration of the fighting spirit of the Filipino and American soldiers because they were able to stop the advance of Japanese to other parts of Southeast Asia.
Meanwhile, on March 10 is the Ride for Valor which will trace the entire route of the Bataan Death March in a unique Big Bike Competitive tour, Ride and Seek Style from Kilometer Zero in Mariveles, Bataan all the way to Capas, Tarlac.
On April 14 is the Bataan Freedom Run (BFR) open to running enthusiasts following the route of the historic Bataan Death March through the Province of Bataan beginning at Balanga, Capitol up to Mt. Samat for the 42-kilometer full marathon. Categories include a 21-kilometers half-marathon, 10-kilometers, 5-kilometers, and 1-kilometer courses for all types of runner from pro-runners to kids and even pets.
Last year, the organizers were able to gather 611 participants which lasted for 36 hours and 52 minutes. Proceeds amounting to Php 400,000 were used for the construction of the historical marker in Mariveles, Bataan – Hospital 1.