PALO, Leyte — The 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division of the Philippine Army conducted a solemn commemoration of the 84th Araw ng Kagitingan on April 9, 2026, honoring the heroism of Army reservists and Filipino veterans at the Marker of the Unknown Soldier, MacArthur Shrine in Candahug, Palo, Leyte.
Brigadier General Pompeyo Jason M. Almagro, PA, Commander of the 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade, led the tribute ceremony that carried the theme "Giting ng Bayani, Pamana sa Salinlahi," emphasizing the enduring legacy of Filipino courage and sacrifice that continues to inspire both military personnel and civilians.
The ceremony took place at the historic Government Center in Candahug, drawing together military officials, local government leaders, veterans, and youth organizations to commemorate the Day of Valor, which marks the fall of Bataan and Corregidor during World War II.
Military Commander Emphasizes Continuous Heroism
During his address to the gathered attendees, Brigadier General Almagro emphasized that heroism extends beyond ceremonial occasions, reflecting the daily commitment of Filipino soldiers to national service.
"As soldiers, we constantly display heroism not only during Araw ng Kagitingan. The mere fact that we serve the country, despite the sacrifices we make, even risking our lives, reflects our willingness to uphold the freedom and peace of our nation," the military commander stated.
The 8th Infantry Division, operating from Camp Lukban in Catbalogan City, Samar, has been instrumental in maintaining peace and security across the Eastern Visayas region, with the 802nd Infantry Brigade playing a crucial role in community engagement and defense operations.
Veteran Calls for Continued Service Excellence
A particularly moving moment came when 80-year-old Pantaleon Estolero of Tolosa, Leyte, a former Constabulary member, addressed the younger generation of soldiers. His decades of service provided a direct link to the military traditions being honored during the ceremony.
Estolero called upon the current generation of military personnel to embody strength, competence, and discipline while continuing the noble mission of serving the Filipino people with both pride and confidence. His presence served as a living reminder of the continuous chain of service that connects today's soldiers with their predecessors.
The veteran's participation highlighted the important role that experienced military personnel play in mentoring and inspiring newer generations of service members, ensuring that the values and traditions of the Philippine military are preserved and passed forward.
Provincial Leadership Emphasizes Patriotic Renewal
Board Member Villasin delivered a message that expanded the significance of the commemoration beyond simple remembrance, positioning the event as an opportunity for patriotic renewal and the strengthening of Filipino identity.
In her address, Villasin specifically honored the courage demonstrated by the nation's forefathers who fought bravely for Philippine independence and sovereignty. She emphasized that the Day of Valor serves as more than a historical marker, functioning as a catalyst for renewed commitment to national values and democratic principles.
The provincial official's participation underscored the collaborative relationship between military and civilian leadership in preserving the memory of Filipino heroes while addressing contemporary challenges facing the nation.
Ceremonial Activities Honor Fallen Heroes
The commemoration featured a series of solemn and symbolic activities designed to pay proper respect to Filipino heroes and veterans. The ceremony included a formal wreath-laying ceremony, a traditional 21-gun salute, and a water salute, each element carrying deep significance in military tradition.
Cultural presentations added depth to the observance, with a cultural dance presentation showcasing Filipino heritage and values. The Sons and Daughters of the Veterans organization participated in a floral offering, representing the continuing connection between past sacrifices and present gratitude.
Board Member Villasin led the wreath-laying rites, followed by representatives from various law enforcement agencies and key stakeholders, demonstrating the unified commitment of different government sectors to honoring military sacrifice.
Community and Government Participation
The event drew significant attendance from both government officials and community organizations, reflecting the broad-based support for honoring Filipino military heritage. Palo Mayor Remedios Petilla attended the ceremony, representing local government commitment to commemorating national heroes.
Veteran Michael Margallo, serving as Regional Assistant of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines – Region 8, participated in the proceedings, while Mario Blasabas, Officer-in-Charge of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office Field Service Office 8, represented federal veteran services.
Law enforcement participation included officials from the Leyte Provincial Police Office, Bureau of Fire Protection, and Philippine Coast Guard, demonstrating the inter-agency cooperation that characterizes modern Philippine security efforts.
Youth participation came through members of the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of the Philippines, ensuring that younger generations witness and participate in honoring military sacrifice and national service.
Division Issues Call for National Action
In concluding the ceremony, the 8th Infantry Division issued a broader call to all Filipinos to honor the valor and sacrifices of national heroes through more than memory alone. The military leadership emphasized that true commemoration requires meaningful action toward peace, unity, and continued national advancement.
This message reflects the military's understanding that commemorating past sacrifices must translate into contemporary commitment to the values and freedoms that previous generations fought to secure and protect.
The 84th Araw ng Kagitingan commemoration in Palo, Leyte, served as both a solemn remembrance of past heroism and a renewed commitment to the ongoing mission of serving the Filipino people and protecting democratic institutions.
Photo credit: Photo courtesy of 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army