79th Araw ng Kagitingan

                  Araw ng Kagitingan, also known as Bataan Day and Bataan and Corregidor Day, is a national observance in the Philippines which commemorates the fall of Bataan during World War II. This historic day marks the greatness of Filipino veterans and American allies who fought against the Japanese invasion in World War II. Thousands of lives were lost during this dark chapter in our history in defending the country’s freedom and sovereignt

                  The celebration's theme this year is "Kagitingan ay Gawing Gabay, Pandemya ay Mapagtatagumpayan," which serves as a reminder that we can conquer COVID-19 through sheer bravery and determination, just as our Filipino veterans defended our country during the war. The Araw ng Kagitingan can never be solely about the bravery of those who came before us and fought. The call to valor is a reminder to every Filipino of who we are, what we've accomplished in the past, what ideals we hold dear today, and what we must do to protect them at all times.

                   On April 7, at 9:00 a.m., a Tribute to All Filipino Heroes was held to commemorate all Filipino heroes, patriots, martyrs, and defenders who fought and died for the country's independence. On the actual day of the observance of Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) April 9 at 8:00 am, there's a gathering held through Facebook Live at the Dambana ng Kagitingan or the Shrine of Valor. This tradition is held to look back and pay tribute to the heroism and sacrifices of the Filipino and American veterans of World War II. 

                    Although the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and group quarantine prevent us from physically gathering, we found ways  to commemorate the 79th Araw ng Kagitingan and the 2021 Philippine Veterans Week. Let this year's national commemoration serve as a reminder of our veterans' valor, and may their courage stories inspire and guide us in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. As we face a global health crisis, we are reminded to remain cooperative, brave, and resilient as we, together with our frontline warriors in healthcare, local officials, and international partners, unite to combat the pandemic. 

References:

-https://pvao.gov.ph/remembering-our-veterans-heroism-and-valor-on-the-79th-araw-ng-kagitingan-and-2021-philippine-veterans-week/

Image from: 

https://images.app.goo.gl/m7sUgfRa1559Gj8eA