The call to continuously unite in the face of modern challenges was underscored in the message of Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, Jr. and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Romero Brawner, Jr, during their tribute to the Filipino heroes who sacrificed their lives during the Second World War.

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(Photo from the Philippine Army)

The celebration of the Philippine Veterans Week commenced with a Sunrise Ceremony held on April 5 at the Heroes' Cemetery, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

A flower offering and Review in Honor of the Veterans were also conducted at the Hunters ROTC Guerilla Field in the Philippine Army Headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

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(Photo from the Philippine Army)

The Taguig City Veterans Office also led a flag raising ceremony on April 8, 2024, at the Taguig City Hall with the theme "Recognizing the Courage of the Veterans: Foundation of Filipino Unity.

Veteran Filipinos from the Second World War were honored for their sacrifices and loyal service to the nation.

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(Photo from Taguig PIO)

In Taguig, there are nearly 3,000 members of the Federation of Veterans in the Philippines in Taguig. Officers of the Veterans Affairs Office receive a monthly allowance ranging from P1,500 to P7,000.

Veterans also receive a birthday cash gift of P 100,000 on their 100th birthday and every birthday thereafter.

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(Photo from Taguig PIO)

Meanwhile, AFP Chief of Staff Brawner remembered the heroism and sacrifices of the brave soldiers who fought for the nation on Valor Day, April 9, 2024.

"As we commemorate this historic day, let us not only reflect on the sacrifices of the past but also reaffirm our commitment to upholding the principles of democracy, peace, and freedom for which our forefathers fought so valiantly. Let us honor their legacy by standing united in the face of challenges and working tirelessly towards a brighter future for our beloved country," said Brawner.

Valor Day is commemorated every 9th of April by virtue of Executive Order No. 203, s. 1987.

By virtue of Proclamation No. 466, s. 1989, April 5 to 11 of every year is designated as Philippine Veterans Week to promote, preserve, and remember the principles, rules, and deeds of the Filipino war veterans, to further nurture love for the country, especially among the youth.

At the end of Philippine Veterans Week, the families of the veterans will gather together at the Heroes' Cemetery on April 11 at 5:00 pm for the Sunset Ceremony. A Holy Mass and program will be held.

(Photo from Taguig PIO)