President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Sunday reminded the generations of today that the freedom Filipinos enjoy was hard-won by its ancestors.
“To our youth who have not experienced war but have inherited the lessons of history, may this day serve as a reminder: the freedom we enjoy today was not simply given; it was fought for, born from the blood, sweat, and tears of our ancestors, our fellow countrymen, our veterans, and every Filipino.”,” Marcos said in a speech read by Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro during the commemoration of the historic landing and return of US General Douglas MacArthur to the Philippines in October 1944.
“Their fight is our fight. Let us carry forward the lessons of those who gave their own so that we can prosper in a society where hope and opportunity flourish for all,” he added.
DND Secretary Gibo Teodoro, on the other hand, reaffirmed the department’s commitment to protect national security, territorial integrity, and freedom.
Secretary Teodoro praised the current administration’s efforts to honor the sacrifices of war veterans by building resilience against foreign invaders as well as natural disasters and calamities.
“In honoring the sacrifices of veterans here, we continue the legacy of building national defense and resilience—not only against those who would want to occupy our territory or abuse our territorial integrity and sovereignty but also against natural disasters and calamities,” he said.
He emphasized that this effort involves collaboration between the legislature and the executive branch, as well as cooperation with like-minded nations.
“I would like to convey my utmost support for all initiatives aimed at ensuring that the lessons and legacy of the Leyte Gulf Landing are preserved, shared, and lived on by current and future generations,” Teodoro added.
House Speaker Martin Romualdez said that the presence of foreign diplomats at the event “ is a testament to how far we have come in promoting and protecting our respective national interests—not through destructive contests of arms and violence but through peaceful diplomatic efforts that are more sustainable.”
“We commend the solidarity of the nations of Australia, Japan, and the US in our shared aspirations for a secure and peaceful region. The Leyte Landing was a turning point in World War II here in the Asian region,” Romualdez added.
The commemoration also unveiled the US Small Boat Association Plaque to civilian Australian Marines and included the rededication of the Australian Memorial.
Among those present at the event were Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya, Australian Ambassador HK Yu, US Maj. Gen. Matthew McFarlane, Tingog Partylist Rep. Jude Acidre, Leyte 2nd District Rep. Lolita Karen Javier, local officials led by Leyte Gov. Jericho “Icot” Petilla, Vice Gov. Sandy Javier, and Philippine Veterans Bank executives headed by Renato Claravall.
