In the celebration of "Araw ng Kagitingan", we commemorate the heroism of Filipinos and American Soldiers during occupation of the Japanese in the Philippines during World War II. How awe-inspiring they are indeed that despite their defeat, the captured soldiers remained strong and it is just one thing that makes them deserve of the word “heroes” and to be honored for also their help in bringing democracy and freedom in the Philippines.
The week-long
observance is an occasion to honor not only the Filipino war veterans who died
or served the country but also to remember those who rendered honorable
military service in defending the country in times of war or peace. This is to
gratefully acknowledge their contributions in preserving our sovereignty and
defending our national security (GOVPH).
In the battle of
Bataan, MacArthur’s force consisted of tens of thousands of ill-trained and
ill-equipped Filipino reservists and some 22,000 American troops who were, in
effect, an amalgam of “spit-and-polish” garrison soldiers with no combat
experience, artillerymen, a small group of plane less pilots and ground crews,
and sailors whose ships happened to be in port when Japanese forces bombed
Manila and its naval yards (britannica.com). This implies that they were
already disadvantaged at first but the courage and sacrifices they offered for
the country are indeed the ones that Filipinos must be proud of.
Despite their
lack of supplies, American and Filipino forces managed to fight the Japanese
for three months (britannica.com). It is very amazing how Filipinos despite
lacking in enough equipment and high-tech supplies are still able to fight and
defend our country up to the point that they even risked their lives.
It was indeed
very saddening, but my admiration and salutations are more dominant for those
76000 prisoners in Bataan Death March who were forced to march in the
Philippines for 66 miles (106 km) which took place in April 1942, during the
early stages of World War II.
The bravery of Filipinos is indeed one a kind and the courage we have to stand still in every drastic situation we are in can be considered as the real resilience which a country truly needs. It is indeed a must to continuously observed patriotism and love for the country in all forms as well as the courage and bravery which our heroes offered for the country. And the fighting spirit we carry on our daily living will hopefully be soon the key on getting all the things we deserve.
References:
https://sa.kapamilya.com/absnews/abscbnnews/media/2018/news/04/09/20180409-araw-ng-kagitingan-mnib-2.jpg
https://dfa.gov.ph/dfa-news/events/araw-ng-kagitingan-2022-1
https://www.britannica.com/event/Bataan-Death-March
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