Pres. Aquino to Lead 73rd Commemoration of Araw ng Kagitingan

(PNA) – President Benigno Aquino III will spearhead the 73rd commemoration of the Araw ng Kagitingan on April 9 at the Mt. Samat National Shrine in Bataan, Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda announced on Monday.

”Falling within the yearly observance of Philippine Veterans Week, the celebration honors the bravery of our soldiers who fought in the name of freedom and patriotism during World War II,” Lacierda said in a press briefing in Malacanang.

Lacierda has invited the public to learn more about the country’s history and to also visit the Palace’s commemorative page on the Official Gazette.

”It contains background information on World War II, a timeline of events leading up to the Fall of Bataan, interactive maps, and excerpts from selected memoirs of Filipino veterans, among others,” he said.

The Palace official said in all activities of the President, “he recognizes that the developments we are pursuing today serve to continue and add to our nation’s history of service and sacrifice.”

”While on one hand looking back to important historical events, the President at the same time remains focused on bringing about progress today and extending its benefits to all areas of the country, cognizant that such positive impact will affect the lives of generations to come,” he added.

In the remaining 15 months of his administration, the President promised to continue the priority programs that are centered on job generation and poverty reduction. (PNA) CTB/JFM