13 April 2016 - The 74th Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) was celebrated on April 09 in Chicago by the Consulate General of the Philippines, members of the Filipino-American Community and several surviving World War II veterans.
A short program commemorating the day's event began at 9:00 am at the Bataan-Corregidor Memorial Bridge on the corner of State Street and Wacker Drive. The bridge was dedicated in 1949 to the memory of all the Filipino and American veterans who fought side-by-side during the heroic defense of Bataan and Corregidor Island in 1942.
The event started with a wreath-laying ceremony by Consul Alena Grace S. Borra, accompanied by the veterans present, and witnessed by members of the Filipino American Community, staff of the Consulate General of the Philippines, and other US veterans. After the wreath laying event, a short program was held at the Consulate General premises. Consul Borra paid tribute to the thousands of Filipino and American soldiers who displayed extraordinary gallantry and courage beyond the call of duty in defending Bataan and Corregidor in 1942. The Consul also recognized the achievements of the Filipino and American veterans and the sacrifices and heroism they have made. She also informed the audience that the overseas voting period has just started and encouraged all registered overseas voters to cast their votes.
Among the first voters who cast their ballot was a World War II veteran, Mr. Dominador Ramirez.
Proclamations from the Offices of the Governor of Illinois and the Mayor of Chicago declaring April 09 as Bataan Day in Chicago were read by their respective representatives. A reception, hosted by Chicago's Filipino-American Community, followed at the Kalayaan Hall. END
