VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur (PIA) — Ilocos Sur Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member Benjamin Maggay called on the public, particularly the youth, to learn history and ignite their patriotism before the upcoming celebration of the 79th anniversary of the victory of the Battle of Bessang Pass.
This celebration is conducted annually at the Bessang Pass Shrine in Barangay Malaya, Cervantes town every 14th of June to commemorate the day that the Filipino soldiers won against the Japanese military forces headed by General Yamashita during World War II.
In the Ammuentayo radio program of the Philippine Information Agency Ilocos Sur on June 10, the provincial board member said the historic victory eventually led to the collapse of the Japanese occupation in the Philippines.
“This significant event in our history should be taught to the youth so they can appreciate the courage, patience, and perseverance of our ancestors who fought the invaders who came to our province,” Maggay said.
He emphasized the importance of instilling the spirit of nationalism, exemplified by the veterans who bravely sacrificed to fight for the people and save the country, within the younger generation.
He shared, “we hope the Department of Education can incorporate our history in their Araling Panlipunan subject, specifically the history of the Battle of Bessang Pass, the Basi Revolt, the Battles of Gabriela Silang, and the Battles Gregorio Del Pilar.”
He stated it is only proper to educate the youth about their roots which can also keep them away from doing self-damaging activities.
“They should instead focus on learning this to fight for their own community, municipality, for the province, or for their country,” he said.
Moreover, he invited government workers, private employees, and all residents in the province to join the celebration and honor the World War II veterans.
During the commemoration, the local government unit of Cervantes, in partnership with the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) Region I and provincial office, will hold a wreath-laying ceremony at the shrine, and a recognition ceremony for the two surviving veterans in the province.
Further, Doctor Ricardo T. Jose, head of history department at the University of the Philippines Diliman will be narrating a glimpse of the history of the battle.
Maggay also thanked the surviving World War II veterans including their families and those who already departed.
He said, “We are grateful to you because we owe it to you and your sacrifices that the Philippines was freed from the grasp of the invaders which the Filipinos of today; our children and our grandchildren, as well as yours, are enjoying.”
This commemoration was recently declared by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, by authority of the President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., as a special non-working holiday in Ilocos Sur province. (JCR/MJTAB/ATV, PIA Ilocos Sur)
