Veterans remembered during sunrise ceremony

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 7): Veterans remembered during sunrise ceremony

At the break of dawn, Armed Forces of the Philippines Commanding General of the Philippine Army Lieutenant General Glorioso Miranda led this year’s sunrise ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (Libingan ng mga Bayani).

Joining Miranda in the ceremony were members of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines, World War II and post-war veterans, students, Boy Scouts of the Philippines, Girl Scouts of the Philippines, World War II descendants, and members of the Technical Working Committee.

Wednesday's event traditionally signals the beginning of the annual observance of Veterans Week (April 5 to 11) at the same time, provides an opportunity for Filipino veterans to honor their fallen comrades and for the families of these veterans to do the same.

AFP Major General Miguel Villamor (Ret), the public relations officer of PEFTOK Veterans Association, Inc., gave the welcome remarks. He said war veterans such as himself should look beyond securing the benefits afforded to them by the government, but rather, focus more on how to contribute in nation building.

In his speech, Miranda recalled the sacrifices made by war veterans and said Filipinos should remember the lives lost in defense of the freedoms this country enjoys today.

“With this ceremony, we convey our gratitude for them, for sacrificing so much,” Miranda said with passion.

He said it is also important to get the next generations to remember because the wars happened a long time ago.

After the program, floral offerings were made in the Tomb of Unknown Soldiert by all key personalities.

By virtue of Proclamation No. 466, signed on Sept. 14, 1989, by then President Corazon Aquino, the welfare of war veterans is a concern of all freedom-loving Filipinos and residents of the Philippines. It states that the principles, ideals and deeds of veterans should be promoted and preserved to enhance patriotism and love of country, especially among the youth.

Meanwhile, then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ammended the proclamation in 2007 to cover not only war veterans but also men and women who served in military campaigns, among others.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/261491524841/veterans-remembered-during-sunrise-ceremony