Statue honoring soldiers unveiled in Laguna

CAVINTI, Laguna, Philippines — An image of a Filipino soldier with a young girl was immortalized in a statue in this town, which was inaugurated during the Independence Day celebration on Tuesday.

Mayor Milbert Oliveros said they decided to deviate from the customary flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremonies, noting that “the best way to honor the sacrifices of our founding fathers is to honor our present day heroes.”

The statue depicts a soldier kneeling before a girl who holds a Philippine flag. The models of the statue are both residents of this town.

Around 400 local government officials, workers, teachers and members of the religious community witnessed the unveiling of the statue.

Brig. Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr., 202nd Infantry Brigade commander, said the statue is an affirmation of the people’s support to soldiers, adding that it would serve as an inspiration for them to perform their mandate.

“We are both humbled and proud. Once in a while, even heroes need heroes to succeed. You are the heroes of our country’s heroes,” Burgos said.

“This statue is just the second of its kind in the country which was put up outside a military camp in honor of our soldiers,” Zyril Carlos, representative of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority, said.