ARAW NG KAGITINGAN. World War II veterans offer flowers during a ceremony on the celebration of the 72nd Araw ng Kagitingan at Plaza Independencia.(CDN PHOTO/TONEE DESPOJO)
WORLD War II veterans should be recognized for their contribution and sacrifices while they are still alive, Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama said yesterday.
“Our heroes fought for our freedom and independence. As we celebrate the Lenten season, we should also reflect on the contributions of our heroes and veterans in various fields,” Rama said in yesterday’s observance of the Araw ng Kagitingan.
The annual ceremony was held at the Veterans’ monument in Plaza Independencia, which is a source of pride for Rama.
“Plaza Independencia is the epitome of independence. I worked hard to make this beautiful,” he said.
The ceremony opened with a Mass by Msgr. Ruben Labajo, who said in his homily that public officials should do right and push for reforms in governance.
Rama and Vice Mayor Edgar Labella led a flag raising ceremony at the Malacañang sa Sugbo after the Mass followed by a wreath and floral offering at the Veterans’ monument.
War veterans who attended yesterday’s celebration were honored with a 21-gun salute.
Among the honorees was World War II veteran Lt. Angelo Alo, who said they helped “restore independence to the country.”
Also in attendance was 18-year-old Jonas Ganub who made the observation that overseas workers like his mother, a nurse employed in Canada, can also be considered a modern-day heroes.
A nursing student, Ganub said he wants to follow in her footsteps.
“Soldiers who’ve been to war are not just the veterans and heroes, but also OFWs who work hard outside the country to provide for their families and to help the economy,” Ganub said.