TOLOSA, Leyte — The province of Leyte on Wednesday, October 18, marked the 79th Signal Day in Brgy. Telegrafo, Tolosa, Leyte in honor of the heroic deeds of late veterans during the Japanese occupation in the Philippines.
With this year’s theme: “Salute to the Valor and Heroism of Filipino Veterans,” the event honored the bravery and heroism of Scout Valeriano Abello, who signaled the incoming allied forces from the hilltops of Telegrafo village using the semaphore signs not to bomb the shorelines because thousands of residents inhabited the area, including Antero Junia Sr. and Vicente Tisto.
In her statement, Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) Leyte Council Chairperson Frances Ann Petilla emphasized that the story of these scouts deserved to be etched in the annals of history as their selflessness and unwavering commitment shielded thousands of lives in Tolosa, Leyte.
“Their act of valor was not just an act of service; it was an act of love for their community. It was a resounding declaration of the scout values instilled in their hearts when they were young,” BSP Chairperson Petilla said.
Petilla added that recognizing this kind of event and declaring these scouts as local heroes assured that their courage, sacrifices, and unwavering spirit forever remained in everyone’s collective memory.
Meanwhile, Tolosa Mayor Erwin Ocaña expressed support and gratitude to the Filipino war veterans for their sacrifices and heroism, striking a better, more compassionate, and inclusive role.
“Honoring the sacrifices and valor of Filipino veterans, their story reminds us of the importance of effective communication and compassion in a modern world. It inspires us to prioritize the well-being of all,” Tolosa Mayor Ocaña said.
Elizabeth Abello-Mercado expressed in her message, as the youngest child of the late scout Valeriano I. Abello, her gratitude to these remarkable war veterans for their contribution to peace and progress in our nation.
“Thank you, Filipino war veterans, for your service, your sacrifice, and your indomitable heroism,” Mercado said.
The commemorative event started with a thanksgiving mass presided over by Rev. Fr. Alvin Nicolasora at St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Telegrafo, Tolosa, Leyte.
A flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremonies followed, including a semaphore flag signaling, a commemorative program, and the awarding of certificates of recognition to living World War II veterans. (MMP/AAC/PIA Leyte)
