La Union Celebrates Heroism, Veterans in 83rd Araw ng Kagitingan Observance
By: Joy Ann L. Gurtiza, GPC-LUPTO | Photos By: Mico Salamanca, LUPTO; Rizalde Buenaventura and Christian Rebultan, PIO | Date: April 9, 2025
The Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) proudly joined the nation in commemorating the 83rd Araw ng Kagitingan and Philippine Veterans Week on April 9, 2025 at the United States Armed Forces in the Philippines – Northern Luzon (USAFIP-NL) National Military Shrine and Park (Camp Spencer) in Barangay Darigayos, Luna, La Union. With the theme “Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas,” this year’s celebration highlights the enduring heroism of Filipino veterans and their vital role in shaping a stronger and more progressive nation.
The solemn ceremony began with a flag-raising, symbolizing respect and unity. This was followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Shrine of the USAFIP-NL where attendees honored the sacrifices made by veterans from La Union. The ceremony concluded with a 21-gun salute, further paying tribute to those who fought for freedom and democracy.
In her address, Governor Raphaelle Veronica “Rafy” Ortega-David highlighted the importance of remembering the sacrifices of local veterans. She stated, “At habang binabalikan natin ang kabayanihang ito, sanay maunawaan din natin na ang pagiging bayani ay hindi lang para sa mga sundalo o sa mga Pilipinong pumanaw na inilaan ang buhay sa ating bansa. Hindi natin kailangan ng armas, hindi natin kailangang mamatay para matawag na bayani, dahil ang diwa ng kabayanihan ay nasa puso ng bawat isa sa atin.”
Spearheaded by the PGLU, LGU Luna, and Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) - La Union, the event gathered local officials, military, veterans, and community members to honor the nation’s heroes. Notable attendees included BGen Ronnie Petinglay, Wing Commander, 580th ACW Wallance Air Stations, Philippine Air Force; Col. Jonathan Inocando, Group Commander, 585th Air Base Group; PLTCOL Cirilo D. Butigan Jr-DPDA; PMAJ Lawrence L. Ganuelas-PCADU; PMAJ Antonio M. Dasalla Jr-COP; PVAO Head Field Officer Adeadatus Retuta, Shrine OIC Fischer Guerrero, Provincial Tourism OIC Julius Manabat, Darigayos Elementary School OIC Arlene Sidayen, Luna Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office Ricardo Manangan, Tourism Officer Tito Gorospe, Office of the Vice Mayor Representative Romel Antonio Nievera, and former Board Member Jonathan Justo “Jay-Jay” Orros. Over 150 veterans, Post Presidents, Scouts, Coast Guard, BFP, teachers, barangay officials, and others also joined the tribute.
A key highlight of the ceremony was a moving reenactment by Dulaang Elyu of the Battle of the Hufano Brothers—Gregorio “Bunog” and Manuel “Balyodo” Hufano—who, along with fellow local heroes, bravely fought Japanese forces in La Union during World War II. The performance captured their courage and the hope restored by General Douglas MacArthur’s return, honoring La Union’s vital role in the fight for freedom.
Veteran Romarico Ramos, representing the Veterans Federation of the Philippines, expressed the ongoing duty to honor those who served, saying, ”Responsibilidad nating tiyakin na ang mga sakripisyo ng ating mga beterano ay hindi kailanman malilimutan. Patuloy nating ibahagi ang kanilang mga kwento at ipagpatuloy ang kanilang pamana sa ating pang-araw-araw na buhay."
In the continued spirit of #LaUnionPROBINSYAnihan, the PGLU is committed to nurturing the ideals of freedom, democracy, and unity that our heroes fought so valiantly to defend. Various activities highlighting the contributions of veterans will continue throughout the week, fostering a deeper appreciation for their sacrifices and dedication to the nation.
Related Photos:
