Negros Occidental officials led the celebration of the 76th Negros Island Victory Day at the Provincial Capitol Park and Lagoon in Bacolod City Thursday, September 9, to pay tribute to Negrense veterans who liberated the island from the Japanese Imperial Army in World War II.
“To our World War II veterans and also our retired members of the Armed Forces, we don’t just owe you our respect and gratitude, we owe you our freedom,” Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson said in his speech.
The affair themed “Kudos!!! WWII Negros Heroes” was attended by members of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines – Negros Occ. Chapter.
Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) – Negros Occ. records show that there are 16 living Negrense veterans.
“In this time of pandemic, in this war against a health scare which affected everyone everywhere, the Filipino people must take inspiration from the way you fought – united, and always looking out for one another,” Lacson said.
“I understand how our present situation can get difficult; and during those times when we are tempted to ease off on the kind of self-control and restraint required of us, let us remember the sacrifices our veterans made, and the measure of discipline they had to sustain, to move us to do the same and be victorious in this war we are presently fighting,” he added.
The celebration started with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Monument of WW II Veterans, 21 Gun Salute by the 79th Infantry Masaligan Battalion, Philippine Army, flag raising ceremony, and commemorative program.
Among those present at the activity were Board Members Juvy Pepello, Ryan Gamboa, Samson Mirhan and Pal Guanzon, Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz II, Capitol department and office heads, Provincial Veterans Association Officer Elan Jane Tuvilla, Veterans District presidents, 303rd Brigade commander, Gen. Inocencio Pasaporte, and Negros Occ. Police Provincial Office director, Col. Romy Palgue.*