PALO: The Philippines marked the 80th anniversary of the Leyte Gulf Landings, led by United States General Douglas MacArthur, with a solemn ceremony underscoring the importance of peace and international solidarity. The event, held on Sunday, was attended by prominent national and international figures, including House of Representatives Speaker Martin Romualdez, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., and ambassadors from Australia and Japan.
According to Philippines News Agency, the commemoration was a reminder of the historic landing and MacArthur’s return to the Philippines on October 20, 1944, to help defeat Japanese forces. The ceremony took place at MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park in Candahug, Palo, Leyte, where Speaker Romualdez emphasized the evolution from violent conflict to diplomatic efforts in resolving international disputes. “Your presence today is a testament to how far we have come in terms of promoting and protecting our respective national interests,” Romualdez stated.
Defense S
ecretary Teodoro praised the efforts to honor war veterans, highlighting their role in safeguarding the nation against foreign threats and natural disasters. He conveyed a message from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., urging the younger generation to remember the sacrifices made for the country’s freedom. “Their battle is our battle,” Marcos’ message read, encouraging the continuation of the veterans’ legacy.
The anniversary program, themed “Bayani ng Kahapon, Dakilang Huwaran ng mga Kabataan Ngayon” (Yesterday’s Heroes, a Great Inspiration for the New Generation), commenced with a flag-raising ceremony, followed by a wreath-laying at the memorial. The event concluded with the Visayas State University-Tolosa Chorale performing the Leyte Hymn, leaving attendees with a sense of unity and reverence.