This 2024, the Filipino people are invited to participate in the commemoration activities for the 82nd Araw ng Kagitingan and the 2024 Philippine Veterans Week. Spearheaded by the Department of National Defense and the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office in collaboration with various government agencies, this year’s celebrations will run from April 5 to April 11, 2024, showcasing the valor and heroism of our Filipino veterans.
Under the theme “Pagpaparangal sa Kagitingan ng mga Beterano: Saligan ng Nagkakaisang Pilipino,” this year's activities aim to emphasize the importance of honoring the bravery and sacrifices of our veterans in today’s society. The overarching goal is to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the freedoms we enjoy today and foster unity among the Filipino people, inspiring collective efforts toward a brighter future.
The commemorative events will kick off with the traditional Sunrise Ceremony on April 5, 2024, at 6:00 AM at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. This will be followed by a Wreath-Laying Ceremony at 7:00 AM and the Review in Honor of the Veterans at 9:00 AM at the Hunters ROTC Guerilla Field, Philippine Army Headquarters, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
The highlight of the veterans' week observance, the commemoration of 82nd Araw ng Kagitingan, will take place on April 9, 2024, at 9:00 AM at the Mount Samat National Shrine,Pilar, Bataan. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will lead the activities, including a wreath-laying ceremony at the Dambana ng Kagitingan to honor Filipino and American veterans of World War II. The event will also provide an opportunity for the President to address the Filipino veterans' community and reaffirm the government's commitment to their welfare.
On April 10, 2024, the public is invited to join the Joint Tribute to all Filipino Heroes – Paggunita sa Capas at 9:00 AM at the Capas National Shrine, Capas, Tarlac. To conclude the Philippine Veterans Week, families of veterans will gather at the Libingan ng mga Bayani for the Sunset Ceremony on April 11, 2024, at 5:00 PM. The ceremony will include a Eucharistic Mass and a solemn program where guests can share personal reflections on how the veterans in their families have impacted their lives.
