President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. marked ‘Araw ng Kagitingan’ (Day of Valor) by renewing his pledge to support men and women in uniform, especially those who gave up their lives in service of the country.
Speaking at Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo in Quezon City, the chief executive vowed to speed up the delivery of benefits to the families of fallen service members.
He acknowledged the delays and bureaucratic hurdles that have long hampered the Comprehensive Social Benefits Program (CSBP).
“It’s sad to think that until now, some of you still haven’t felt the help of the government,” Mr. Marcos told families of fallen soldiers and police personnel.
The CSBP covers financial and livelihood assistance for families of military and other uniformed personnel who died in the line of duty.
“If it is clear that someone is KIA [killed in action] and you are the family, why are so many documents still needed?” he asked. “Let’s simplify the process,”
During the event, the president announced that long-awaited benefits would finally be released to the families in attendance.
Meanwhile, the President called on Filipinos to draw strength and inspiration from the country’s wartime heroes as the nation honored the defenders of Bataan and other acts of bravery during World War II.
In a statement, Mr. Marcos said the commemoration was not only a tribute to the fallen but also a reminder that heroism lives on in everyday acts of service and compassion.
“We celebrate the valiant heroes of the defense of Bataan, and all Filipinos who showed unwavering courage and patriotism during the Second World War,” he said.
“Their remarkable story continues to inspire us all as we carry on their work of protecting our nation,” he added.
In a statement, Vice President Sara Duterte called on Filipinos to draw inspiration from the courage of World War II heroes, saying their bravery during the Battle of Bataan should serve as a guiding light as the nation confronts modern-day challenges.
“Ang kagitingan ng mga Pilipino noong World War II sa Battle of Bataan ay umukit ng isang mahalagang pahina sa ating kasaysayan bilang paalala sa katapangan at kabayanihan ng ating lahi, sa gitna ng kalupitan at pang-aapi,” she said.
Senate President Francis Escudero also urged Filipinos to remember those who sacrificed their lives for the country’s freedom.
“From doing small acts of kindness to pursuing great goals for the nation, let us all unite to continue taking pride in our being Filipino,” he said.
Escudero stressed that freedom is not easily won and is paid for with sweat, blood, and lives.
He also called on Filipinos to continue striving for the nation’s progress and to show courage and compassion in facing modern challenges.
For his part, House Speaker Martin Romualdez urged Filipinos to reflect not only on the battle of Bataan but also on the silent sacrifices and human cost that came with it.
“Eighty-three years ago in Bataan, thousands of Filipinos stood their ground. They were tired. They were hungry. They were outnumbered. But they kept on fighting—not because they knew they’d win, but because they couldn’t give up their dignity as Filipinos,” Romualdez said.
“Today, we remember more than just a battle. We remember the young lives lost too soon. The families who waited for loved ones who never came home. The quiet acts of courage that never made the headlines. Their bravery wasn’t loud—but it was firm, unshakable, and true,” the Speaker stressed.
Department of National Defense Chief Gilberto Teodoro, Jr. said Filipinos must draw inspiration from the courage of nations’ heroes and rise to the challenge of nation-building, Department of National Defense Chief Gilberto Teodoro Jr said Wednesday.
In his 83rd Araw ng Kagitingan message, Teodoro emphasized that the legacy of valor demonstrated by the country’s veterans should guide the collective pursuit of progress, peace, and security.
“As we commemorate Araw ng Kagitingan, we remember the bravery of those who fought and sacrificed their lives for our country. Their heroism is etched in our nation’s history, a powerful reminder of what it means to be truly Filipino.” Teodoro said
“In these uncertain times, may we draw strength from their legacy and stand united in purpose and resolve,” he added.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “On Day of Valor, Marcos vows prompt aid for fallen soldiers’ kin.”