Governor Bong Lacson and provincial officials led the celebration of 76th Negros Island Victory Day held at the Provincial Capitol Park and Lagoon, today (Sept. 9), attended by the members of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines – Negros Occ. Chapter, non-government organizations, government agencies, and Capitol employees.

This yearly event is a tribute to the gallantry and patriotism of Negrense veterans who liberated the island after fighting against the Japanese Imperial Army in World War II.

The celebration started with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Monument of WW II Veterans, Volley of 21 Gun Salute by the 79th Infantry Masaligan Battalion, Philippine Army, flag raising ceremony, and commemorative program.

“In this time of pandemic, in this war against a health scare which affected everyone everywhere, the Filipino people must take inspiration from the way you fought, — united, and always looking out for one another,” said Gov. Lacson.

According to the governor, the province owes the Veterans and Armed Forces a debt that cannot be repaid, and that what can be done is to honor them by emulating their patriotism and courage.

“To all my fellow Negrenses, I understand how our present situation can get difficult; and during those times when we are tempted to ease off on the kind of self-control and restraint required of us, let us remember the sacrifices our veterans made, and the measure of discipline they had to sustain, to move us to do the same and be victorious in this war we are presently fighting,” he added.

Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) – Negros Occ. records show that at present, there are 16 living Negrense Veterans alive.

The liberation day is themed, “Kudos!!! WWII Negros Heroes”.Present in the activity were Board Members Juvy Pepello, Ryan Gamboa, Samson Mirhan, and Pal Guanzon, Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz II, Capitol department and office heads, Provincial Veterans Association Officer Elan Jane Tuvilla, Veterans District presidents, 303rd Brigade Commander, General Inocencio Pasaporte, Negros Occ. Police Provincial Office Director, Colonel Romy Palgue, among others.

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