WWII vets hailed in twin commemorative events

LINGAYEN— Paangasinan paid tribute anew to the World War II veterans of the province via a commemorative program held annually since 2008 at the Veterans Memorial Park, Capitol Complex.

The surviving 200 WWII veterans, out of more than 300, were accompanied by their family members during the 12th Pangasinan Veterans Day celebration held on January 9 that coincided with the 74th Lingayen Gulf Landings Anniversary.

Maguindanao’s 2nd District Rep. Zahid Mangudadatu cited the significance of the commemorative events in honor of the veterans who lost their lives, including the surviving, to liberate the country from foreign invaders.

Reiterating his advocacy on peace and security, the solon, as a peace advocate, said he bats to break the barriers among Christians, Muslims, and Indigenous Peoples.

“When there’s no fighting, no rebellion, we attain genuine peace,” he said.

WWII veterans listen watch the baton leader of the Philippine Army marching band during 74th Lingayen Gulf Landings Anniversary and the 12th Pangasinan Veterans’ Day held at Veterans Memorial Park in Lingayen on January 9.

Gov. Amado Espino III who pledged his administration’s commitment to support the veterans’ cause, thanked not only the war veterans, but all Pangasinenses for their continuing support for the provincial government’s endeavors.

Maraming salamat sa inyong patuloy na pagsuporta sa mga programa ng Pamahalaang Panlalawigan,” said Gov. Espino who emphasized the provincial administration’s unwavering heartfelt public service to Pangasinenses.

The commemorative program proper was preceded by the solemn wreath-laying ceremony and 21-gun salute. The following led the wreath-laying at the Veterans’ Memorial Park marker: Rep. Mangudadatu, Gov. Espino, Brigadier Gen. Lenard Agustin of the Philippine Army, Veterans Federation of the Philippines President Manuel Pamaran, Lt. Gen. Ernesto Carolina of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, Atty. James Curtis-Smith and Mr. Graham Crispin of the Returned Services League of Australia, PVAO Pangasinan head Romeo Madriaga, and Zoraida Navarro – daughter of a war veteran.

Rev. Fr. Jerry Orbos celebrated the Thanksgiving Mass.

Lunch and medical mission for the surviving WW-II veterans and their families followed at the Sison Auditorium. (PIO/MGNO)

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