ELEUTHEROMANIA

There is no doubt that war is an evil one. It is the greatest catastrophe that can befall human beings. There is no doubt that war is a terrible thing. It is the worst disaster that humanity has ever faced. Like the Fall of Bataan, it brings death and devastation, indiscriminate slaughter and butchery, disease and hunger, poverty and ruin in its wake.

Thousands of prisoners died from malnutrition, exhaustion, and diseases before reaching the camp during the trek also known as the Bataan Death March.

Despite their defeat, the captured soldiers remained strong and emerged as heroes as a result of the battle. The fall of Corregidor was hastened by the surrender of Bataan. However, if the Japanese had not taken this stance, they might have easily overwhelmed all of the US bases in the Pacific. Bataan forced them to slow down, allowing the allies precious time to prepare for subsequent conflicts including the Battle of the Coral Sea and the Battle of Midway. On February 8, 1945, American and Filipino liberation forces retook the Bataan peninsula.

The Fall of Bataan is now remembered as a tragic story of the past. However, unlike The Shining or American Psycho, this is not a story based on a novel. It is a tragedy that will live on in the annals of our history.

The Araw ng Kagitingan also known as Day of Valor, honors Filipino and American soldiers who fought Japanese forces during World War II. This official regular nationwide holiday is celebrated annually on April 9th. To commemorate the day, veterans of World War II will march in several cities around the Philippines. The main event takes place in Bataan at the Mt. Samat Shrine, which honors the bravery and sacrifice of Filipino and American troops during WWII. The President of the Philippines will also delivers a speech honoring veterans.

The week-long commemoration is an opportunity to recognize not only Filipino war veterans who died or served their country, but also those who served honorably in the military in times of war or peace. This is to express our gratitude for their efforts in upholding our sovereignty and ensuring our national security. “Kagitingan ay Gawing Gabay, Pandemya ay Mapagtatagumpayan” is the theme for this year's commemoration.

Violence and conflict have marked the country's struggle for independence and democracy, resulting in significant loss of life and property. On the plus hand, it has provided people with the power and clarity of vision they need to maintain their democratic gains.

Let this year's commemoration serve as a reminder that we should remember the sacrifices made as we till the fields that have soaked up the blood of countless wars, as we idly cruise through cities that have witnessed the marks of history, and as we look upon the faces of our fellowmen, knowing that it was for them that they fought. Throughout history, lives have been lost, but it is these dark moments that have further reinforced our patriotic love for our motherland.