MANILA --- National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Monday called on the nation not to allow the heroic deeds of war veterans and freedom fighters be forgotten by future generations.
Lorenzana delivered this message during the commemoration of the 76th anniversary of the Fall of Bataan where thousands of Filipino and American troops gave their lives in fighting the Japanese Imperial Army.
Every April 9, the Philippines commemorates "Araw ng Kagitingan" (Day of Valor).
"Let us continue to celebrate and commemorate the valor and gallantry of our WWII veterans. Let us perpetuate the memory of their deeds to be emulated by future generations of Filipinos," he added.
Lorenzana also urged the nation to continue honoring the remaining World War II veterans for the services they have rendered.
"Let us honor those who are still with us for pretty soon they will all be gone," he added.
Underequipped and meagerly supplied American and Filipino forces, fighting in the Bataan frontlines, were forced to surrender in April 9, 1942 after 93 days of gallant resistance against the superior and well-armed Japanese soldiers.
Some 60,000 Filipino and American troops were made prisoners of war by the Japanese.
They were made to walk some 112 kilometers from Mariveles, Bataan to Capas, Tarlac under the scorching sun with no food and water for days in what is known the world over as the “Death March.” (PNA)
