The legacy
of valor and sacrifice continues as descendants of World War II Filipino and
U.S. veterans, alongside military personnel, government officials, members of
the diplomatic community, students, and families, take part in the annual
Freedom March. This historic event commemorates the 83rd anniversary of the
Battle of Bataan and honors the heroic endurance of those who endured the
infamous Bataan Death March.
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PH soldiers march with civilians in honor of WWII heroes |
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A marcher holds the picture of his relatives who are veterans of Bataan Death March. |
Philippine
Veterans Bank (PVB), in partnership with the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office
(PVAO) and the Department of National Defense (DND), will once again lead this
solemn tribute on March 1-2, 2025. The 160-kilometer commemorative walk traces
the exact historical route of the Death March, starting from Mariveles, Bataan,
and concluding in Capas, Tarlac.
"The
Freedom March is more than just a walk; it is a moving testament to the courage
and sacrifice of our World War II heroes. As we retrace their steps, we ensure
that their stories live on, inspiring future generations with their legacy of resilience
and patriotism," said Mike Villa-Real, PVB First Vice President for
Marketing Communications and Consumer Protection.
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Civilian marchers who joined the 160-KM march from Mariveles, Bataan to Capas, Tarlac. |
The Freedom
March mirrors the route taken by approximately 66,000 Filipino and 10,000
American prisoners of war. The path stretches from Mariveles and Saysain Point
in Bagac, Bataan, to Camp O’Donnell in Capas, Tarlac. This historic route
connects us to the past, turning each step into a tribute to our brave WWII
heroes that shape our national identity.
To encourage
wider participation, participants may choose to join specific segments of the
march at their preferred starting points in any of the three provinces of
Bataan, Pampanga and Tarlac. This will allow individuals from different
backgrounds to join in this act of remembrance.
"Every
step taken in the Freedom March is a step of remembrance, gratitude, and
commitment to ensuring that our heroes’ sacrifices are never forgotten,"
Villa-Real added.
The Freedom
March extends an open invitation to all who wish to honor the bravery of
Filipino and American soldiers. Interested participants may register at
https://forms.gle/npJJggx3jxCoMLzS6. Registration is free.
"This
march is our pledge to keep their legacy alive, to remember their courage, and
to ensure that their sacrifices continue to inspire generations to come,"
concluded Villa-Real.
For more
information about the event, follow https://www.facebook.com/veteransbankmarch.
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