Members of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines gather for the wreath-laying ceremony at the Plaza Independencia in Cebu City for the 82nd celebration of the Araw ng Kagitingan. (Photo courtesy of PVAO FSO Cebu)
CEBU CITY, Cebu (PIA) -- The Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) honored four World War II veterans in Cebu during the recent commemoration program of the Philippine Veterans Week and the 82nd Araw ng Kagitingan.
Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama handed over the certificates of recognition to the war veterans during the activity held at the Vetarans’ Marker in Plaza Independencia, Cebu City.
“These four living WWII veterans together with their families received certificates of recognition and were commended for their bravery. The mayor has also mentioned cash incentives,” said Rhedgie B. Sabandal, head of the PVAO Cebu.
One of the war veterans, Vicente Bautista Echavez, Jr., is 106 years old and considered the oldest living hero in Cebu, said Sabandal.
As of 2023, Cebu has 16 living war veterans, four of which are in Cebu City and 12 in Cebu province.
Sabandal said that during the Sunrise Ceremony at the Cebu City Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Labangon, the city government has disclosed the possible allocation of slots for deceased war veterans in the Carreta Cemetery.
“Here in Cebu, we also have this ‘Libingan ng mga Bayani’ where you can honor the graves of our veterans. Since there are also other uniformed personnels aside from the veterans, the City Government of Cebu has offered a portion of the Carreta cemetery which can be utilized when needed,” she said.
The Photo and Static Display on April 9, 2024 at SM Seaside City Cebu showcasing the World War II veterans of Cebu. (Photo courtesy of PVAO FSO Cebu)
Sabandal also cited some benefits given to war veterans and their families, one of which is the pension to members of the Women’s Auxiliary Service amounting to P21,700 monthly.
PVAO also covers 45 days in a year for their hospitalization and 100 percent reimbursement for their medicine and hospitalization including the professional fee.
“We also have this Veterans Preference Rating eligibility that gives additional 10 points to the civil service examination score, which can be availed of by one family member,” added Sabandal.
Children or grandchildren of war veterans can also apply for a scholarship which is at 60,000 per year.
A Photo and Static Photo display exhibition participated by the living veterans was also held at the SM Seaside Cebu on April 9.
Mall shoppers and bypassers were treated to the free use of combat gear and equipment for a photo shoot during the exhibit. (MYP/PIA7)
