8ID joins the 66th commemoration of the Leyte Gulf Landings

By CMO Battalion, 8ID PA
October 21, 2010

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan, Samar  –  As its annual dedication in the name of freedom and democracy, the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division once again joined the people of Eastern Visayas in the 66th commemoration of the Leyte Gulf Landings yesterday, October 20 at McArthur Park, Palo, Leyte bearing the theme: “Passing on the torch of heroism to the Youth of today”.

As early as 4:00 a.m., the troops were already positioned in the “unknown heroes” monument for the “Sunrise Ceremony” where retired Colonel Francisco San Miguel, the vice-president of the Veterans of the Philippines, other dignitaries and veterans lay wreath to salute the unknown soldiers of Leyte who fought for the country during the Japanese occupation in the country.

They were then repositioned on the grounds of McArthur Park to carry out historic task for the activity.  Around 10,000 spectators from all walks of life including some foreign personalities witnessed the activity.  Living WWII veterans and their relatives who became the center of the activity add light with the annual commemoration.

Meanwhile, the troops steadfastly endured the strong heat of the sun as they wait for the highlight of the program.  Around 9 o’clock in the morning, when the program started with the arrival of Under Secretary Samuel Bagasin of the Department of National Defense as the commemoration speaker.

No less than the commander of 8ID, Major General Mario Chan hosted the arrival of USec Bagasin with a full military honor.

The activity has renewed the spirit of nationalism for everyone when the Philippine flag was raised and the Philippine National anthem is being played that spearheaded the raising of flags and playing of the other nation’s national anthem such as the Australia, Japan, Canada, New Zealand and United States.  These countries played important role when WWII erupted in the country.

The wreath laying ceremony to the Heroes memorial, participated by the representatives of the aforesaid countries took place immediately after the national anthems had been played.

In the messages given by the foreign representatives, they commonly focused their talks on the positive effect that the coming back of McArthur had brought not only to the Philippines but also to the other nations.  It cannot be denied by the fact that then two (2) opposing countries before such as Japan and USA are now frequently seen in union advocating peace-related endeavors.

This endeavor further inspires the people of Eastern Visayas to sooner achieve and re-experience the freedom and democracy that were given to us by our forefathers but vehemently deprived by the local terrorist group.  With the huge numbers of people who witnessed the program, it also showed that people still lingers for a peaceful life not for a violent and barbaric cause as enforced by the New People’s Army (NPA) in the province.