US re-echoes continuing friendship, support to PH
PILAR, Bataan — The United States (US) re-echoed its continuing friendship and support to the Philippines, particularly in advancing the freedom and prosperity which World War II veterans have fought for.
In his speech during the 73rd Araw ng Kagitingan rites at the Dambana ng Kagitingan, US ambassador Philip Goldberg said the two nations continue to be allies and strategic partners having shared goals and values.
“It was the relentless and indomitable spirit of our guerrillas and soldiers in defense of Bataan and the captivity of Camp O’ Donnell that brought forth the creation of an alliance–the US-Filipino alliance, which is the oldest in the region and one that has helped protect and preserve the stability of the entire Asia-Pacific region,” Goldberg stressed.
“In 2015, as in 1942, we face challenges and threats together as partners, friends and in many places not only in times of war. Whether we are fighting terrorism or responding to the disasters of natural calamities, we face them together and when the Philippines is in need, it is not alone,” he added.
Among the initiatives of the US government is the passage of a bill that provides $245 million to 18, 944 eligible World War II veterans.
Moreover, its Veterans Affairs Office in Manila provided over $7.5 million in medical equipment to the Veterans Memorial Medical Center.
Meanwhile, their Congress appropriated $5 million to restore the eternal resting places of thousands of Filipino and American service men and women and their families inside Clark Freeport.
Goldberg said that Japan, their former adversary, is likewise an ally in advancing freedom and prosperity.
“Yesterday’s enemies are todays allies and strategic partners. This is yet another legacy of the sacrifice and heroism of the US and Filipino soldiers,” the envoy ended.
History recounts that on April 9, 1942, approximately 78,000 Filipino and American soldiers stationed in Corregidor and Bataan formally surrendered to the Japanese army under Lt. General Masaharu Homma.
These prisoners of war were transferred to Camp O’ Donnell, Capas, Tarlac in what would infamously be known as the “Bataan Death March”.
The Dambana ng Kagitingan was built on top of Mount Samat in 1966 in memory of those soldiers.
The shrine’s most distinct feature is a 92-meter Memorial Cross which is made up of marble, steel, and concrete.
At the base of the cross is a sculptural bas relief that depicts important historical events and battles in the Philippines.
This year’s commemoration is anchored on the theme, “Ipunla ang Kagitingan sa Kabataan, Ihanda ang Beterano ng Kinabukasan.” (PIA 3)
