Diplomatic Corps Joins the Commemoration of the 83rd Anniversary of Araw ng Kagitingan

The Diplomatic Corps is introduced to President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. by Assistant Secretary and Chief of Protocol Ariel Rodelas Peñaranda. (Photo courtesy of RTVM)

MANILA 14 May 2025 — Members of the Diplomatic Corps in the Philippines participated in the Commemoration of the 83rd Anniversary of Araw ng Kagitingan held at the Mount Samat National Shrine in Pilar, Bataan on 09 April 2025. This year’s theme, ‘Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas,’ underscores the pivotal role of Filipino veterans in upholding the nation’s enduring values of strength and resilience.

Organized by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), with the support of the Department of Foreign Affairs - Office of Protocol, the solemn ceremony was attended by 23 members of the diplomatic corps, including ten (10) resident ambassadors, who were introduced to President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. by Assistant Secretary and Chief of Protocol Ariel Rodelas Peñaranda.

The program commenced with a wreath-laying ceremony led by President Marcos, Jr., Japanese Ambassador H.E. Endo Kazuya, and US Deputy Head of Mission Mr. Robert Y. Ewing. Their participation symbolized the enduring partnership and shared history among the Philippines, Japan, and the United States–nations that played significant roles during the Fall of Bataan in World War II. 

In his commemorative address, President Marcos emphasized that the hard-earned lessons from the past shall bring the country to a brighter future, built on the courage and sacrifices of our veterans and the unwavering patriotism of the Filipino people. END

President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya, and US Deputy Head of Mission Mr. Robert Y. Ewing leads the wreath-laying ceremony at the Shrine of Valor, Mt. Samat. (Photo courtesy of RTVM)

Members of the Diplomatic Corps take part in commemorating the 83rd Anniversary of Araw ng Kagitingan. (Photo courtesy of RTVM)

(From L-R) Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., US Deputy Head of Mission Mr. Robert Y. Ewing, and Bataan Governor Jose Enrique Garcia III (Photo courtesy of RTVM)