LA TRINIDAD COMMEMORATES DAY OF VALOR (ARAW NG KAGITINGAN)

April 13, 2024 Provincial

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet

The local government unit of La Trinidad commemorated the 82nd Anniversary Day of Valor on April 8, 2024 with theme, “Pagpaparangal sa Kagitingan ng mga Beterano: Saligan para sa Nagkakaisang Pilipino”. The event underscored the historical significance of veterans’ sacrifices during World War II and post-war eras, showcasing their honorable military service in safeguarding peace in the nation and stressing the need to promote unity among Filipinos. Part of the event was a declamation on “Pagpupugay sa Watawat” by Engr. John Paul Buliyat.

The declamation explained the importance of the Philippine Flag as a symbol of freedom. Everyone should respect and love the flag because it represents the sacrifices made by Filipino soldiers during World War II for peace in the
country. “Magpugay kayo rito sapagkat ito ang kabuuang ganap ng kaligayahan ng ating mga ninuno sa panahon ng mga siglong nagdaan. Damhin niyo ito sa inyong dibdib sapagkat ito ang banal na watawat ng minumutya nating Pilipinas. Ingatan niyo ito sa inyong mga puso sapagkat ito ang palatandaan ng ating mga kapatid na nagbuwis ng buhay sa kapakanan ng ating bayan,” Buliyat emphasized.

A wreath-laying ceremony also took place at the Veterans Federation of the Philippines La Trinidad Post at the municipal park to pay tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of Philippine veterans for peace and freedom of the country. In his message, Mayor Romeo Salda urged the public especially the youth to pay tribute to the veterans during the celebration of Philippine Veterans Week and the commemoration of 82nd Day of Valor. “Through the
commemoration activities ket ma-inspire kuma especially the youths to put into action daytoy makunkuna a love of
country,” Salda said.

Various organizations, including La Trinidad Masonic Lodge No. 344, Sons and Daughters Association Incorporated, the Veterans Federation of the Philippines, the Women’s Brigade, government line agencies, municipal officers, and
employees, participated in the commemoration activities of the Day of Valor. The annual observance of Araw ng Kagitingan on April 9 is mandated under Executive Order No. 203, series of 1987 while Proclamation No. 466,
issued in 1989, designated April 5–11 as Philippine Veterans Week. In relation to this, the municipality of La Trinidad will also celebrate its Liberation Day on May 3 to recognize and acknowledge the veterans of its town.

(JDP/DEG with Marvilyn Lokines, P4.2-M mula sa BSU Intern)