BY: VALERIE ANN DISMAYA

Various provinces in the Ilocos Region joined the nation in commemorating the 83rd Day of Valor, paying tribute to the sacrifices of Filipino heroes during World War II.

In a ceremony held at Mount Samat in Pilar, Bataan, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led the national observance.

In his message, he emphasized two lessons from the war—unity in the pursuit of peace and the courage shown in everyday acts of kindness and compassion.

“We continue to believe in the courage that binds us,” the President said, reflecting on the importance of remembering history to guide future generations.

Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya and U.S. Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Robert Ewing also attended the event.

Both diplomats underscored the value of facing history and upholding international law as a foundation for peace.

Meanwhile, in the Ilocos Region, local governments held their own tributes. In Ilocos Sur, provincial officials offered flowers at the statue of former President Elpidio Quirino.

Surviving war veterans were also honored, with Governor Jerry Singson describing the event as “not only a collaboration of valor, but of courage and sacrifice.”

In Ilocos Norte, Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc led the ceremony at the Military Park in Cape Bojeador, Burgos. He emphasized the importance of studying history, especially in the context of rising global tensions.

“None of the freedoms we enjoy today came without a cost,” Manotoc said. “We must remember the past and be vigilant of current threats.”

In Luna, La Union, the local police force held a wreath-laying ceremony at the United States Armed Forces in the Philippines-Northern Luzon Military Shrine.

These regional activities formed part of the nationwide remembrance of Filipino soldiers who endured the Bataan Death March and other hardships during World War II.