Every year on April 9th, the Philippines commemorates Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor). This national holiday remembers the fall of Bataan in 1942, a pivotal moment during World War II when Filipino and American troops surrendered to Japanese forces after a valiant 93-day defense.
Significance:
Araw ng Kagitingan goes beyond remembering the fall of Bataan. It’s a day to honor the bravery and sacrifice of Filipino soldiers throughout history, from pre-colonial battles to contemporary conflicts. It serves as a powerful reminder of the Filipino fighting spirit, resilience, and unwavering love for country.
Observances:
National Ceremonies: Official wreath-laying ceremonies take place at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (Cemetery of Heroes) in Metro Manila, attended by government officials, veterans, and the public. Similar ceremonies happen at war memorials nationwide.
Flag Ceremony: The national flag is flown at half-mast throughout the day.
Mt. Samat National Shrine of Bataan:
Traditionally, the President of the Republic of the Philippines leads the annual commemoration of Araw ng Kagitingan, an event during Philippine Veterans Week, coordinated by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) with regional and provincial government units hosting parallel ceremonies. Atop Mt. Samat, the Dambana ng Kagitingan, or Shrine of Valor, stands as a symbol honoring the bravery of Filipino and American forces who valiantly fought from January to April 1942 in the Bataan Peninsula. This shrine serves as a perpetual reminder of their sacrifices, ensuring that future generations recognize the price paid for peace. This national event honors the Filipino and American soldiers who fought during World War II and serves as a reminder of their sacrifice and the enduring Filipino spirit.
Local Traditions:
School Activities: Schools hold programs and activities to educate students about the importance of Araw ng Kagitingan. This may include presentations, lectures, or documentaries about the Bataan campaign.
Visits to Memorials: Filipinos visit cemeteries to pay their respects to fallen heroes, placing flowers on their loved ones’ graves.
Veteran Recognition: Communities organize events to honor veterans, thanking them for their service.
Travel:
While Araw ng Kagitingan is a national holiday, it’s not typically a time for large-scale travel. However, if you’re visiting the Philippines during this period, you might encounter some road closures due to official ceremonies.
Araw ng Kagitingan is a solemn yet inspiring day. It’s a time to reflect on the sacrifices made for the Philippines and a reminder to continue upholding the values of courage, patriotism, and national pride.
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