TACLOBAN CITY—Mayor Cristina Gonzales Romualdez joined local and foreign World War II veterans and other guests as she led the 73rd commemoration of the Leyte Landing here on Friday.
Also present were Presidential Adviser on Military Affairs Arthur Tabaquero and actress Janella Salvador.
World War II veteran Eduardo Bermudo, now 94 years old, still remembers the torment he and his comrades suffered during the war, and the continuing fight they are waging today for a decent living.
“The US government didn’t recognize my father as a war veteran. All our documents were lost during Typhoon “Yolanda.” My father survived the war and the Bataan Death March. He even survived “Yolanda,” so he is a hero in our hearts,” said Carlos Bermudo, son of the sergeant.
Tabaquero commended the organizers for giving tribute to the veterans, saying it is good for the youth to meet war veterans “whose service and sacrifice gave us the peace and freedom we enjoy now.”
“We must continue to do this because it is good to show the new generation that our love for our country must come first for the future of the Philippines,” he added.
Commander Brian Clark of the United States Navy felt honored to be in the event and recognize the veterans who fought and survived World War II, as well as other veterans who continue to serve today.