Leyte province commemorates 72nd Leyte Gulf Landings

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 21): Leyte province commemorates 72nd Leyte Gulf Landings

The province of Leyte solemnly commemorated the 72nd Leyte Gulf Landings anniversary Thursday at Macarthur Landing Memorial National Park, Candahug Palo, Leyte as a way of honoring the heroic deeds of the Filipino war veterans and allied forces during World War II.

Diplomatic representatives from different countries engaged in the battle seventy two years ago met with the war veterans and their sons and daughters at the landing site where Gen Douglas Macarthur fulfilled his promise to return.

In his anniversary message, Leyte governor Leopoldo Dominico L. Petilla said it is but proper to recognize the people who stood their foot to gain liberty and ensure aspiration of lasting peace and understanding.

 “The return of Gen Macarthur to Leyte was a turning point of the Philippine liberation campaign during the second world war for it marked the first decisive win of the combined allied forces against the enemies and gave hope to millions of Filipinos,” Petilla said.

Messages of solidarity were espoused from allied forces such as USA, Australia and even Japan during the commemoration.

Col Kevin P. Wolfla, US Army Attache, Embassy of the United States of America in the Philippines reaffirmed its ties with the Philippines that started since world war II.

“Since world war II the United States has not wavered its commitment to the Philippines. Our relationship with the Philippines is broad and our alliance is of the most enduring and important relationship in the Asia Pacific Region. It is a cornerstone of stability for over seventy years,” the official said.

On his part, Capt Brad White, defence attache, Embassy of Australia in the Philippines likewise reaffirmed the common values and deep friendship they have with the Philippines and other allied countries.

Meanwhile, Minister Atsushi Ueno, deputy chief of mission and consul-head of political section, Embassy of Japan in the Philippines vowed to continuously uphold freedom and democracy and will work hand in hand with the Philippines, USA, Australia and other countries for peace and prosperity in the whole world.

The historic event in October 20, 1944, caused to perish thousands of lives of Filipinos but it was a great victory as it provides many opportunities that the succceding generations enjoy until today.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2681476997994/leyte-province-commemorates-72nd-leyte-gulf-landings-