PILAR, BATAAN ─ The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) led by its Chairperson Lisa Guerrero Nakpil together with His Excellency President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., will lead the 82nd Araw ng Kagitingan on 9 April 2024, Tuesday at 8:00 AM with the theme, ‘Pagpaparangal sa Kagitingan ng mga Beterano: Saligan para sa Nagkakaisang Pilipino.’

Arrival honors will be facilitated by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) followed by the national anthems of the Republic of the Philippines, United States of America, and Japan.

The  Dambana ng Kagitingan or the Shrine of Valor is the country’s altar of heroism where tributes are made to Filipino and American veterans of World War II.  It stands as a symbol of the depth of veterans' sacrifices. The Araw ng Kagitingan, on the other hand,  serves as the venue for the President to address the veterans and their families and reaffirm the State’s commitment to care for them.

The wreath-laying ceremony will be led by His Excellency President Marcos Jr., followed by Deputy Chief of Mission Robert Y. Ewing from the Embassy of the United States of America and Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya. Rev. Fr. Josue Enero, Vice General, Roman Catholic Diocese of Balanga and Parish Priest of St. Catherine of Siena Parish, Balanga will lead the invocation. The tolling of the bells will be done by veteran Felicisima Pajarin dela Cruz assisted by Yeshua Brylen Flores of Luakan National Highschool, Dinalupihan.

This will be followed by welcome remarks from Bataan Governor Jose Enrique S. Garcia III and an overview given by NHCP Chairperson Nakpil. Messages from Ambassador Endo Kazuya and Mr. Ewing will then be delivered. Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro will introduce the guest of honor and a speech by the President will mark the end of the program. The AFP will once again facilitate the departure honors.  

The nation commemorates Araw ng Kagitingan in remembrance of the Fall of Bataan when Filipino and American forces surrendered to the Japanese after resisting for months with limited weapons, ammunition, and supplies. 

The NHCP is the national government agency mandated to promote Philippine history through its museums, research, and publications, and to preserve historical heritage through conservation and the marking of historic sites and structures. (NHCP)