SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga—A 160-kilometer competitive freedom trail and a trade exhibit will mark this year’s commemoration of the 76th Araw ng Kagitingan on March 24 in Bataan.
On April 9, President Rodrigo R. Duterte will lead the commemoration at the Dambana Ng Kagitingan at the Mt. Samat shrine in Pilar, Bataan.
Called Bataan Freedom Trail, the event is composed of competitive team race, non-competitive cycling for bikes, and torch-passing for the youth, a statement released by the Philippines Veteran Bank said.
The trail will traverse the actual historical sites of the 160 kilometers Death March routes that started in the town of Mariveles in Bataan passing through the train station in the City of San Fernando Pampanga up to the north of Capas, Tarlac.
The trail aims to uphold the bravery of the 80,000 Filipino and the American soldiers who fought in the three-month Battle of Bataan during the Second World War on April 9, 1942.
Due to lack of air and naval support and crippled by starvation and disease, US General Edward King Jr. was forced to surrender to Japanese Imperial Army that resulted in the death of 18,000 Filipino soldiers and 650 American soldiers.
The statement also said that the event also aims to recognize the contribution of the Reserved Officers Training Corps units during the war.
Proceeds from the trail event will be used for the maintenance of the World War II historical sites along the death march routes while the winners and finishers will receive medals from organizers which include the Philippines Affairs Office and the provincial Government of Bataan. Interested parties can register to all SM malls in Pampanga and in Metro Manila.
On April 7, another race composed of 41 and 21 kilometers competitive race in various categories like solo, team, military with 10 to 20 rucksacks will also be held under the 5th Bataan Freedom Run around the City of Balanga.
Nora Reclusado, chief of business development of the Department of Industry in Bataan said that trade exhibit composed of locally made products will be on display at the Plaza de Mayor on April 4 up to 9 in line with commemoration of the Bataan Day.
The exhibit aims to cater to the local and foreign visitors who will join the celebration Araw ng Kagitingan in the province.
“The locally made products include delicacies, fresh fruits and vegetables, dried fish, novelty items, ladies accessories,” she added.
Other activities during the celebration include military and civil parade.