Ilonggos on Tuesday remembered the heroism of thousands of Panay Guerilla Forces who stood their ground before Japanese forces and liberated Panay, Guimaras, and Romblon Islands 80 years ago.

Wreaths were offered before the tombs of Col. Macario Peralta Jr. and his wife, Natividad, and at the wall of memories and tomb of the unknown soldiers at the Balantang Memorial National Shrine in Barangay Quintin Salas by descendants of World War II heroes, representatives of national government agencies, Veterans Federation of the Philippines, post-war veteran leaders, and other participating entities, as among the highlights of the event.

“We stand here to give honor and thanks to the heroic deeds of the veterans. May we be reminded that history is not just a collection of dates and events. It is a constant reminder of sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering love for freedom. Let this serve as a renewal of commitment to honor them,” Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) deputy administrator for operations Assistant Secretary Domingo Carbonell Jr. said in his message.

He noted that in honoring their heroic deeds, they also perpetuate what they have done for the Philippines.

“Let us keep the memories going and always maintain our love for the country through preserving the freedom that our veterans fought for,” he added.

Veterans Federation of the Philippines president, retired Maj. Gen. Romeo Alamillo said the liberation of three islands was one of the most significant events that led to the country’s liberation.

“The Veterans Federations of the Philippines as a program, we are trying to, with all due respect to the Americans, we are trying to shy away from the concept that the Americans liberated us,” he said, adding that even before the Americans arrived, guerilla forces had already gained ground.

The Battle of Balantang, where the national shrine stands, was considered the bloodiest battle fought by the Panay Guerilla Forces under Peralta.

The guerilla forces survived the seven suicidal attacks of the Japanese Imperial Forces during the 1945 battle from Feb. 6 to March 20, allowing the Allied 40th Infantry Division of the United States Army to land at Barangay Parara in the town of Tigbauan, Iloilo.

Mayor Jerry Treñas said it is the shared responsibility of the younger generation to uphold their legacy through actions that reflect “collective dedication to the welfare of our community.”

“Their courage and sacrifices continue to inspire us as we strive to safeguard the freedoms they so valiantly defended. Let us fight – not with weapons, but armed with compassion, cooperation, and a steadfast resolve to create a brighter and more inclusive future for all,” he said in a message read by Vice Mayor Jeffrey Ganzon.

The event was participated in by about 1,000 sons and daughters of veterans, but none of the nine surviving WWII veterans was able to join, unlike in the previous years.

PVAO designated head for Iloilo Field Service Extension Office Glen Castañares said the ages of the surviving war veterans range from 94 to 104 years old.

Proclamation 430, series of 1989, declared March 18 of every year as a Victory Day in the islands of Panay and Romblon, including the cities of Iloilo and Roxas, and shall be observed as a non-working special day. (PNA)