As we commemorate the lives of Filipino soldiers who fought on the Day of the Valor and their sacrifices to stand up against the cruelty of Japanese colonizers, I will enlighten the minds of my readers on the tragic past of our soldiers during the World War II. Day of the Valor, more often called the "Araw ng Kagitingan" or "Bataan Day" in the Philippines, is celebrated on the 9th day of April. Under the Republic Act 3022, this day is an official Filipino holiday. The law also states that part of the observance for this holiday is a moment of silence at 4:30pm to honor the death of many Filipinos.
There are various events in the Philippine history that have left a massive impact in our country up until the present. As Filipinos, it is necessary that we educate ourselves as to why we celebrate the "Araw ng Kagitingan."
Fall of Bataan is not a tale from a fiction book, it is a real life tragedy written on the dark pages of our history book. April 9, 1942,
Luzon Force, Bataan Commander, Major General Edward P King, Jr, surrendered more than 76,000 of his troops to Japan. Soldiers were forced to endure the 140km Bataan Death March to Camp O'Donnell in Tarlac. The march lasted for 6 days and during those days, no food, water, or any rest was given to the soldiers. Those who fell behind were beaten to death and the bodies of those who perished along the way were abandoned and driven over by vehicles. It was only until 1945 that the survivors of the Bataan Death March were rescued. As a reminder of the determination and courage shown by these soldiers in the face of unbearable challenges, we celebrate Araw ng Kagitingan, or Day of Valor, to honor the bravery and sacrifices of Filipino soldiers who fought against the Japanese invaders during World War II. Araw ng Kagitingan is a celebration of the Filipino people's a lifelong spirit and their strong commitment to defending freedom and independence, not just a day to remember the past. We honor the heroes who gave their lives to protect their nation and reaffirm our dedication to preserving the values of bravery, patriotism, and resiliency through this celebration.
As we observe Araw ng Kagitingan, let us carry forward the lessons of history and the legacy of our brave soldiers. Their sacrifices remind us of the price of freedom and the importance of unity in safeguarding our nation. May their courage be an inspiration for us to overcome challenges of our time. Their memory lives on in the hearts and minds of future generations. Together with honoring the past, let us also look forward to a better future wherein peace and justice win the day.
REFERENCES:
Araw ng Kagitingan
https://3.bp.blogspot.com/eVnah_5srwE/VSYjLL1lTII/AAAAAAAAEtw/UZPhXpk3siw/s1600/Ara
wNgKagitingan02_Palace_kjrosale_090415.jpg
Bataan Death March
https://www.heraldnet.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/web1_TSR-bataan.jpg
Blogger
http://www.blogger.com
Soldiers Commemorating Bataan Day
https://www.bria.com.ph/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Bria-Homes_Araw-ng-Kagitingan.jpg
Comments
Post a Comment