PRESS RELEASE
WDC-17-2026
14 April 2026
Embassy Press and Information Section
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C., represented by Deputy Chief of Mission Felipe Cariño III and Defense Attache BGen. Roy Derilo and accompanied by Police Attache BGen Moises Villaceran, joined the Filipino Veterans Recognition Project (FilVetRep) in commemorating Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) on April 9, 2026 at the Military Women’s Memorial in Arlington, Virginia.
The intimate and solemn ceremony honored the courage, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of Filipino and American soldiers who fought side by side during World War II, particularly those who endured the hardships of the Bataan campaign and its aftermath.
Attendees paid tribute to the bravery of these veterans whose service continues to inspire generations. The event was made special by the attendance of WWII Filipino American veteran Senior Petty Officer Ray Cabacar (ret.) and his family, Ms. Rain Lim, who is a descendant of WWII Filipino hero BGen. Vicente Lim (Philippine Army, US Forces in the Far East), and representatives from the US Department of Veterans Affairs.
FilVetRep Chairman and US Army Major General Antonio Taguba (ret.) highlighted ongoing efforts to advance historical awareness and recognition of Filipino veterans in the United States, including ongoing initiatives across the United States to document their stories and advocate for their rightful place in history.
In his remarks, Deputy Chief of Mission Cariño emphasized the enduring significance of Araw ng Kagitingan as a symbol of resilience, shared history, and the deep bonds between the Philippines and the United States. He noted that the commemoration serves not only as a remembrance of past sacrifices but also as a reaffirmation of the two nations’ commitment to uphold the values of liberty, democracy, and peace and stability.
“The message is clear for us and the next generations: to live a life of courage even as we remember the courage of those who came before you, and carry forward their commitment to peace, cooperation, and shared humanity. In doing so, we greatly honor their valor not only in memory, but in action”, he said.
Defense Attaché BGen. Derilo likewise underscored the importance of preserving the legacy of Filipino veterans and shared his own story of military responsibility and efforts that contribute to the advancement of country-to-country relations.
The Philippine Embassy reaffirms its commitment to preserving the memory of Filipino veterans and continuing efforts to strengthen historical awareness and bilateral ties grounded in shared sacrifice and mutual respect.
Araw ng Kagitingan, observed annually on April 9, marks the fall of Bataan in 1942 and honors the heroism of those who fought in its defense. The commemoration stands as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of freedom and the enduring partnership between the Philippines and the United States. This event is part of the year-long celebration that highlights 80 years of Philippines–United States relations and the 75th anniversary of the Mutual Defense Treaty.
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