Araw ng Kagitingan: Philippines Honors Veterans, Modern-Day Heroes on Day of Valor
Table of Contents
- 1. Araw ng Kagitingan: Philippines Honors Veterans, Modern-Day Heroes on Day of Valor
- 2. Recognition of Modern-Day Heroes
- 3. DBM’s Commitment to Legacy
- 4. Remembering the Bataan Death March: A U.S. Outlook
- 5. Key Figures and Statistics
- 6. What does the DBM Secretary emphasize as the key purposes of Araw ng Kagitingan?
- 7. An Interview with DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman on Araw ng Kagitingan
- 8. Secretary Pangandaman,thank you for joining us. Could you tell us about the importance of Araw ng Kagitingan?
- 9. The commemoration also acknowledges modern-day heroes. who are some of these individuals,and why are they being recognized?
- 10. The article highlights the DBM’s commitment to openness and responsible governance. Can you elaborate on how this aligns with honoring the heroes’ legacy?
- 11. The Bataan Death March is a significant event for both Filipinos and Americans.How does the government ensure education about this important event continues?
- 12. What message would you like to leave with our readers regarding Araw ng Kagitingan?
- 13. Thank you, Secretary Pangandaman, for your valuable insights.
the Philippines commemorated the 83rd araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) on April 9, 2025, honoring the courage and sacrifice of Filipino veterans and recognizing the contributions of modern-day heroes to the nation’s growth and progress.
Published:
Soldiers join the commemoration of the 83rd Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) at the Mt.Samat National Shrine in Pilar, Bataan on Wednesday (April 9, 2025). the occasion remembers the heroism and sacrifice of filipinos during World War II and recalls the 1942 Fall of bataan to Japanese forces.
(Photo courtesy of Bongbong Marcos facebook page)
MANILA – In a solemn ceremony held on April 9, 2025, the Philippines marked the 83rd Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor), a national holiday commemorating the bravery and sacrifice of Filipino veterans. The event serves as a poignant reminder of the 1942 Fall of Bataan, a pivotal moment in World War II when Filipino and American forces, facing overwhelming odds, surrendered to the Japanese Imperial Army after months of fierce resistance.
Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman joined the nation in paying tribute to the veterans, emphasizing their enduring legacy as “not just a chapter in our history but the foundation of our nation’s growth and development.”
Secretary Pangandaman stated,
The valor, dedication, and patriotism of our forebears remain the core of the Philippines, showing us that true strength lies in our commitment to peace, solidarity, and progress.
The Fall of Bataan, a harrowing event etched in the collective memory of the Philippines, saw tens of thousands of Filipino and American soldiers endure immense suffering during the infamous Bataan Death March. This forced march, characterized by extreme brutality, starvation, and disease, claimed the lives of countless soldiers and civilians, leaving an indelible scar on the nation’s psyche.
Recognition of Modern-Day Heroes
Beyond honoring the veterans of World War II, the Araw ng Kagitingan also serves as an chance to recognize the contributions of modern-day heroes who continue to shape the Philippines.Secretary Pangandaman extended her honor to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), health professionals, uniformed personnel, teachers, and public servants, acknowledging their vital role in nation-building.
The inclusion of OFWs in the Day of valor commemoration is especially significant, given their considerable contributions to the philippine economy through remittances. According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), personal remittances from OFWs reached a record high of $36.14 billion in 2023, accounting for a significant portion of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). These remittances support the education, healthcare, and livelihoods of millions of Filipino families.
Similarly, the recognition of health professionals, teachers, and public servants highlights the importance of their dedication and service in providing essential services to the Filipino people. These individuals often work under challenging conditions, yet remain committed to their calling, embodying the spirit of selflessness and resilience that defines the Filipino character.
DBM’s Commitment to Legacy
In line with the commemoration, Secretary Pangandaman reaffirmed the DBM’s commitment to carry forward the heroes’ legacy by ensuring transparency, fiscal responsibility, and people-centered governance.
Through responsible resource management and inclusive public service, we aim to empower communities and create a brighter future for generations to come,
she said.
This commitment underscores the importance of good governance in honoring the sacrifices of past and present heroes. By promoting transparency and accountability in the management of public funds, the DBM aims to ensure that resources are used effectively to address the needs of the Filipino people and promote sustainable development.
Moreover, the emphasis on people-centered governance reflects a commitment to ensuring that government policies and programs are designed to benefit all Filipinos, particularly the most vulnerable sectors of society. This approach aligns with the spirit of social justice and inclusivity that has long been a cornerstone of Filipino values.
Remembering the Bataan Death March: A U.S. Outlook
The Fall of Bataan and the subsequent Bataan Death March hold particular significance for Americans and also Filipinos. The joint sacrifice of American and Filipino soldiers forged a strong bond between the two nations, a bond that continues to this day. The Bataan Death March is a stark reminder of the horrors of war and the importance of international cooperation in preserving peace and security.
For many Americans, especially those with family members who served in the Pacific Theater during World war II, the Bataan Death March is a deeply personal event. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by American soldiers in defense of freedom and democracy. The event is frequently enough commemorated in the U.S.through memorial services,educational programs,and ancient exhibitions.
The story of the Bataan Death March also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked aggression and the importance of standing up to tyranny. It reminds us that freedom is not free and that it requires constant vigilance and a willingness to defend democratic values.
Key Figures and Statistics
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | 83rd Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) Commemoration |
| Date | April 9,2025 |
| Location | Philippines (Mt. Samat National Shrine in Pilar, Bataan) |
| key figure | DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman |
| Historical Significance | Remembers the heroism and sacrifice of Filipinos during World War II, specifically the 1942 fall of Bataan. |
| OFW Remittances (2023) | $36.14 billion (record high) |
What does the DBM Secretary emphasize as the key purposes of Araw ng Kagitingan?
An Interview with DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman on Araw ng Kagitingan
Archyde News sat down with Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman to discuss the significance of the 83rd Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) and its relevance to the Philippines today.
Secretary Pangandaman,thank you for joining us. Could you tell us about the importance of Araw ng Kagitingan?
Secretary Pangandaman: Thank you for having me. Araw ng Kagitingan is a profoundly important day for the Philippines. It’s a time to honor the bravery and sacrifice of our veterans, particularly those who fought during World War II. it’s a reminder of the Fall of Bataan and the enduring spirit of the Filipino people in the face of adversity. It’s a time to teach younger generations the cost of freedom
The commemoration also acknowledges modern-day heroes. who are some of these individuals,and why are they being recognized?
Secretary Pangandaman: Absolutely. Araw ng Kagitingan isn’t just about the past; it’s about the present and the future. We recognize the contributions of our modern-day heroes, including Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), health professionals, teachers, uniformed personnel, and public servants. OFWs, for example, contribute significantly through their remittances, which reached a record $36.14 billion in 2023 – a number that significantly helps the economy and the livelihood of many Filipinos. The others consistently provide vital services, embodying the spirit of selflessness that defines the Filipino character.
The article highlights the DBM’s commitment to openness and responsible governance. Can you elaborate on how this aligns with honoring the heroes’ legacy?
Secretary pangandaman: Certainly. the heroes of the past fought for a better Philippines, a Philippines where justice and fairness prevail.By promoting transparency, accountability, and people-centered governance, we are working to fulfill that vision. We wont to ensure that public funds are managed responsibly and that resources are used to uplift the lives of all Filipinos, particularly the most vulnerable. This is how we carry forward their legacy.
The Bataan Death March is a significant event for both Filipinos and Americans.How does the government ensure education about this important event continues?
Secretary Pangandaman: The Bataan Death March is a stark reminder of the horrors of war and the importance of peace. The government supports educational programs, memorial services, and ancient exhibits to keep the memory alive. It’s crucial that future generations understand the sacrifices made and the lessons learned from that tough period.We collaborate with various organizations, including those in the U.S., to preserve this history and ensure its continuity.
What message would you like to leave with our readers regarding Araw ng Kagitingan?
Secretary Pangandaman: Araw ng Kagitingan is a call to action. It reminds us that we all have a role to play in building a better Philippines.Let us never forget the sacrifices of our heroes, both past and present. Let us all strive to embody the values they represent: courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the nation. Let’s work together on the betterment of our country and the people.
Thank you, Secretary Pangandaman, for your valuable insights.
Secretary Pangandaman: Thank you for having me.
Archyde News encourages readers to share their thoughts on how we can further honor our heroes in the comments below.
