CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) – The city government of Cagayan de Oro recognized the contributions of Filipino veterans in the nation’s development during the 83rd Araw ng Kagitingan commemoration held at the City Amphitheater on April 9.
City Administrator Roy Hilario Raagas emphasized their bravery has been a source of inspiration for decades. “Heroism of our veterans is not merely a relic of the past, but a foundation of our progress as a nation,” he said.
Raagas noted that the event, themed Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas, commemorates the over 76,000 soldiers who surrendered to valor during the fall of Bataan in 1942 and celebrates the bravery and patriotism of the soldiers who continue to serve as heroes.
“They stood their ground in the face of tyranny, fought alongside allied forces, and offered their lives for the cause of freedom, justice, and sovereignty,” he added.
Raagas stressed that in the country’s history, soldiers have served in international wars not just as combatants, but also as humanitarian and peace-keeping forces.
The commemoration included a wreath-laying ceremony with participation from government offices and civic organizations. (HSGA/PIA-10)
