Bataan: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the government's commitment to expanding services and support for Filipino veterans, as the nation honored their sacrifices during Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) rites at the Mt. Samat National Shrine in Bataan on Thursday. In his speech, Marcos said honoring the country's war heroes must go beyond remembrance and translate into concrete programs that improve their welfare.
According to Philippines News Agency, the President cited ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare access for veterans, including plans to establish veterans hospitals in the Visayas and Mindanao, as well as the rollout of the Veterans Access to Lifetime Optimized Healthcare (VALOR) clinics. He said over 2,630 veterans and their dependents benefited from hospitalization and medical care programs last year, while 146,896 pensioners received monthly benefits.
Marcos also highlighted education and financial support initiatives, noting that 973 scholars have received assistance, while disability pension rates were increased under Republic Act 11958. Observed every April 9, Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) commemorates the fall of Bataan in 1942, when Filipino and American troops fought overwhelming odds before surrendering to Japanese forces, leading to the Bataan Death March. The President paid tribute to their courage and enduring legacy.
He also cited the unveiling of a Czech marker honoring Czech nationals who fought alongside Filipinos in Bataan, underscoring global solidarity in the fight for freedom. Marcos said the lessons of Bataan remain relevant as the country faces modern challenges, including geopolitical tensions in the Middle East that continue to impact global oil prices and Filipino households.
He emphasized that, beyond government action, nation-building requires collective effort anchored on compassion and unity. Marcos closed his message by honoring living veterans as 'embodiments of strength' and vowed that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.
During the same event, US Embassy Charg© d'Affaires Robert Ewing, in a speech, honored the sacrifice of all veterans and reflected on the evolving partnership between the Philippines and the US decades after World War II. He highlighted that, from the battles of the Pacific War to modern advances, the bond between the two nations has grown into a comprehensive alliance encompassing various sectors. This year's commemoration carries added significance as 2026 marks the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two states and the 75th anniversary of the Mutual Defense Treaty.
