CAPAS, Tarlac — Former Defense Undersecretary for Civil, Veterans and Retiree Affairs Edgardo Batenga lauded Wednesday World War II veterans for their heroic deeds and sacrifices.
In his speech during the Paggunita sa Capas 2019, Batenga emphasized the contribution and efforts of the veterans in liberating the country from the subjugators.
“According to the latest authenticated records, 74,800 Filipinos and 7,786 American soldiers marched from Mariveles, Bataan up to this very camp as prisoners of the Japanese Imperial army. Many have died because of torture, brutality, mistreatment, disease and starvation,” the retired military general said.
“So as we commemorate the Paggunita sa Capas, we are a nation remembering and paying tribute to our World War II veterans,” he furthered.
Moreover, Batenga commended the valor and patriotism of war veterans who sacrificed their lives for the future of Filipinos and the Philippines.
“Allow me to say to you (veterans) our appreciation and gratitude. We owe you our liberty, freedom and democracy today,” he said.
Batenga likewise thanked the United States for conferring the Congressional Gold Medal, its highest civilian honor, to Filipino war veterans.
On another note, Batenga challenged and urged the youth to continue and imbibe the valor and ideals of the veterans as their guiding principles.
Paggunita sa Capas is part of the annual observance of Philippine Veterans Week which honors the bravery of war veterans.
This year’s commemoration carries the theme “Sakripisyo ng Beterano ay Gunitain, Gawing Tanglaw ng Kabataan Tungo sa Kaunlaran.”