Negrenses honored freedom fighters during the 80th Negros Island Victory Day Sept. 9, which commemorates the island’s liberation from the Japanese Forces during World War II.
Themed “Victory and Valor: Honoring 80 Years of Freedom and Sacrifice”, the ceremony marked the surrender of about 13,500 Japanese soldiers under General Takaise Kono in Sta. Rosa, Murcia on Sept. 9, 1945.
In his message at the Provincial Capitol Park and Lagoon in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson paid tribute to the war heroes for the historic triumph and extraordinary courage they showed in fighting for freedom.
He thanked the veterans for the highest form of service they rendered to the province and the country.
“Your unwavering courage and devotion to the cause of freedom stand as a timeless inspiration and standard of courage to every generation. The liberty we enjoy today was bestowed by your sacrifice and your willingness to endure the unimaginable,” he added.
Lacson acknowledged the service rendered by the post-World War II district commanders as well as the retired officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police.
Lacson said the service and dedication of the veterans carried forward the legacy of the Negrense wartime heroes to ensure that the peace and freedom they fought for are preserved and safeguarded for future generations.
The governor noted that Negrenses can never repay those who gave their lives on the battlefield and those who continued to serve and inspire even after the war.
“What we can do and what we must do is to live worthy of your sacrifice: By cherishing our freedom, by defending our democracy, by committing ourselves to unity and peace, and to make sure that our story of victory, brought about by your valor, will never be forgotten,” he added.
Part of the program was a wreath-laying ceremony at the Monument of World War II Veterans, accompanied by a 21-gun salute, and followed by the flag-raising rites and commemorative program.
The Teatro Bukal of Murcia National High School also presented a historical play. | PNA
