Tarlac Governor Susan Yap encouraged the present generation to honor the veterans by practicing patriotism and sacrifice.
In her message during the 2022 Paggunita sa Capas, Yap said instilling patriotism, and practicing the values of bravery and sacrifice are among the ways to honor the heroes who suffered and lost their lives during the death march for our freedom.
“The present generation lives freely in peace and with pride, humility, and dignity as a result of the heroic deeds and nationalistic attitude of the freedom-fighters,” she added.
“Today marks our responsibility to reflect and continue to remember and honor the heroism and legacy of our veterans,” Yap furthered.
Following the steps of the veterans, the local chief executive encouraged the people to unite towards the common good of the Filipino people.
“Let us make it as our prime commitment that this notable event in our history will never be forgotten but continue to inspire us all to work together in fulfilling our duties towards a common goal and purpose of securing general welfare for our people,” she said.
Paggunita sa Capas commemorates the freedom-fighters who experienced the death march, and became prisoners-of-war at one the Japanese concentration camps which later on became an internment ground—Camp O’Donnell in Capas town.