‘War vets will never be abandoned’

MANILA, Philippines - The government will continue to look after the welfare of war veterans and their families in recognition of their sacrifices for the country.

President Aquino gave this assurance as he led the commemoration of the 71st Araw ng Kagitingan in Bataan yesterday, announcing increased benefits for war veterans.

In a speech at the Mt. Samat Shrine, the President said “neither pomp and circumstance nor the laying of wreaths against this monument can truly measure what our veterans have done for this country.”

“Which is why, in addition to the tributes and commemorations we hold for the Filipinos who defended and looked after their nation and continue to do so, we in turn pledge to care for them and for their families. They, who never once wavered in putting country above self, will never be abandoned by their state and their countrymen,” Aquino said.

The President cited the grant of P1,700 monthly disability pension aside from other benefits for veterans who reach the age of 70.

He said the Filipino Veterans Equity Compensation law, which provides for $9,000 and $15,000 compensation for non-US citizens and US citizens, respectively, is being implemented.

The President said the compensation reached $224 million for 18,700 applications approved in January alone.

“When it comes to healthcare services, every year, we continue to focus on maintaining the good health of our soldiers and veterans. The 599 public hospitals across the country accredited by the Veterans Memorial Medical Center as regional or provincial extensions continue to serve the public,” he said.

The President added that since last January, the subsidy of war veterans seeking care from public facilities increased from P800 to P1,200 per day.

“All of these initiatives stem from the debt of gratitude we have for the selfless sacrifices of our veterans,” he said.

The President exhorted the Filipino people to follow the example of war veterans.

“Let us dedicate the change we have made possible along the straight path to our Filipino brothers and sisters who were not able to enjoy the benefits of peace and prosperity. As the new generation of Filipinos, let us make a commitment. Let us show that we are likewise ready to give more of ourselves to achieve meaningful change,” he said.

The President also noted that nations that fought during the war are now allies in pursuing peace, stability and progress.

“Together with America and Japan, we have proven that the best defense against misunderstanding is close cooperation, exchange, and adherence and upholding of international law. Again, we thank these countries for standing alongside our government,” Aquino said.

American Ambassador Harry Thomas Jr. and Japanese Ambassador Toshinao Urabe attended the ceremony. They joined the President at the wreath laying rites at the Dambana ng Kagitingan.– With Ric Sapnu