War veterans honored during Lingayen Gulf Landings anniversary

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro honored World War II veterans for fighting for the country, during the commemoration of the 88th anniversary of the Lingayen Gulf Landings in Lingayen, Pangasinan yesterday.

Teodoro gave assurance that the Armed Forces of the Philippines is currently strenghtening its capability, through modernization of AFP assets, to ensure that the sacrifices of Filipino veterans will not go to waste.

On Jan. 9, 1946, US-led Allied forces docked at the Lingayen Gulf after a three-day battle with Japanese forces.

The landing paved the way for the Allied forces to advance to Manila and defeat the Japanese imperial army.

Teodoro said the Department of National Defense has significantly improved the Veterans Federation of the Philippines (VFP), a government-owned and controlled corporation that supports programs and initiatives for veterans.

He said audit and assessment are ongoing to ensure sustainability of the VFP.

Pangasinan Gov. Ramon Guico III said the event was intended to not only commemorate an important part of the country’s history, but also to honor the veterans for their dedication, patriotism and heroism.

Guico thanked the veterans and their families, especially those who were present at the ceremony.