PRESS RELEASE
WDC-23-2025
10 April 2025
Embassy Press and Information Section
WASHINGTON D.C. – On a chilly but bright morning, Ambassador Jose Manuel G. Romualdez and the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project (FilVetREP) commemorated Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) at the World War II Memorial on April 9, 2025, honoring the courage and sacrifice of Filipino and American soldiers who fought side by side during World War II. The Ambassador was accompanied by Deputy Chief of Mission Jaime Ramon T. Ascalon, Jr., Philippine Defense Attache Brigadier General Roy Derilo, Air Force Attache Colonel Dennis Alcarde, Navy Attache Captain James Lugtu, and Police Col. Moises O. Villaceran, Jr.
FilVetREP President US Army Major General (Ret.) Antonio Taguba opened the ceremony with a tribute to the shared heroism of Filipino and American veterans, highlighting the enduring legacy of the Bataan defenders and the importance of preserving their memory. Amb. Romualdez echoed MG Taguba’s sentiments when he was invited to deliver his remarks.
“I hope that our valiant veterans can see and know that this alliance would not have been possible without them. Let us uphold the values of honor, duty, and country that they fought for as we all work together to reinforce the ironclad Philippine-American treaty alliance.” the Ambassador said in his remarks.
The solemn gathering was made especially meaningful by the presence of Senior Chief Petty Officer (Ret.) Rey Cabacar, one of the few surviving Filipino American World War II veterans. He was honored during the event for his exceptional bravery and steadfast service.
General Roy Derilo delivered the closing remarks and read a message from Philippine Defense Secretary Gilbert ‘Gibo’ Teodoro, Jr., emphasizing the continuing commitment of the Philippines and the United States to honor their veterans and strengthen mutual defense ties.
The commemoration reaffirmed the enduring bonds of history and sacrifice that unite the two nations and underscored the living legacy of valor that Araw ng Kagitingan represents. This comes right after US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth concluded his recent visit to the Philippines. ###
PHOTO RELEASE
WDC-95-2025
10 April 2025
PHOTO RELEASE
WDC-96-2025
10 April 2025
