PHILIPPINE EMBASSY AND FILVETREP AWARD CONGRESSIONAL GOLD MEDALS TO FAMILIES OF FILIPINO WWII VETERANS

PRESS RELEASE
WDC-75-2025

10 November 2025

Embassy Press and Information Section

info@phembassy-us.org

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Embassy of the Philippines in Washington, D.C., in partnership with the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project (FilVetREP), held a Congressional Gold Medal ceremony on 07 November 2025, to posthumously honor four Filipino veterans of World War II.

Held between Filipino American History Month and Veterans Day, the ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the shared history and enduring alliance between the Philippines and the United States.

The awards were given to the families of (1) Petty Officer First Class Jose Baraquio, US Navy, accepted by his daughter Maria Baraquiao; (2) Staff Sergeant Ernesto Cesario, US Army, accepted by his daughter Flordelis Cesario; (3) Staff Sergeant Marcial Marasigan Simpson, US Army, accepted by his son Michael Simpson; and (4) Sergeant First Class Joaquin Canlas, US Army, accepted by his great grandsons Major Darren Canlas (USAF) and Major Danny Ray Canlas (USA). 

In his welcoming remarks, Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez acknowledged Senior Petty Officer Rey Cabacar (ret.), one of the few remaining surviving Filipino veterans of World War II, and reaffirmed the Embassy’s commitment to honoring the legacy of Filipino veterans, ensuring that their courage and sacrifice are remembered by future generations. “I am deeply honored to join you once again, just a few weeks after we commemorated the 10th anniversary of the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act—a milestone in your tireless efforts to secure recognition for the valor, sacrifice, and service of Filipinos who fought under the American flag during World War II,” the ambassador said.

Following the presentation of the Congressional Gold Medals, Brigadier General Jimmy Canlas (USAF, ret.) also shared a personal story about his grandfather, one of the veterans posthumously honored during the ceremony. He reminded the audience that the legacy of the Filipino World War II veterans must continue to be told, saying, “Don’t let our stories and memories end here. Everyone who witnessed today’s event has a responsibility to spread the word—that the brave actions of these men and women are among the reasons we enjoy freedom, democracy, and the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”

Philippine Defense Attache Roy Derilo (PH Army, Brig. Gen.), likewise delivered a message of gratitude and remembrance on behalf of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. “We are deeply grateful for your service and sacrifice. Your bravery is the reason our alliance endures with such strength and purpose. Your legacy is reflected not only in the medal bestowed today, but in the unity, resilience, and shared values that our Armed Forces continue to uphold,” he said.

Representing the District of Columbia, Director Ben de Guzman of the DC Mayor’s Office on Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs (MOAPIA) read a special Proclamation by DC Mayor Muriel Bowser, recognizing their contributions to freedom and democracy.

The Congressional Gold Medal is awarded collectively to Filipino World War II veterans under Public Law 114-265, recognizing their outstanding wartime achievements and honorable service to the United States during World War II. The Medal stands as a symbol of valor, integrity, and selfless service to the nation.

The event was attended by veterans’ families, community leaders, and members of the Filipino-American community, who together paid tribute to the courage and legacy of the Filipino soldiers who fought alongside U.S. forces during World War II.

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