War vs terrorism underlines 73rd Leyte Landing rites

PALO, LEYTE, Philippines — The war against terrorism and efforts from many countries, including the United States and Japan–protagonists during World War II–became the rallying point for peace and unity among nations.

Leyte Governor Dominic Petilla of Leyte–host of this year's 73rd Leyte Gulf Landing anniversary celebration–has vowed, together with officials of the US, Japan, Australia and Canada to be united in peace with one another.

The event, held at the MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park in Palo, Leyte, marked the year when US General Douglas MacArthur returned to the Philippines to liberate the country from its Japanese invaders. This year's anniversary theme was "Leyte Gulf Landing: "Keeping Alive the Valor of the Heroes of World War II."

The victory of the Philippine government troops against the ISIS-inspired Maute group terrorists, in a five-month battle to liberate Marawi City, was highlighted during the annual event as another milestone of the continuing war of the country and its foreign partners against the global threats of terrorism.

Michael Klecheski, deputy chief of mission of the US Embassy, told reporters that the US government is proud that the Philippines achieved a major victory, in toppling down the Maute leaders in the Marawi siege. He said the two countries have reaffirmed their alliance and friendship, which was started during WWII when General MacArthur led the liberation of the Philippines 73 years ago, or on October 20, 1944.

"Let us take this occasion as a reminder for us of the bravery and sacrifices of our WWII heroes who fought for our freedom, and the real democracy we have now and the coming generations," Klecheski said.

Lieutenant General Oscar Lactao, commander of the Visayas Central Command, who represented the guest of honor Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, in his speech urged everyone to become heroes in fighting radical ideologists .

"We honor our veterans, the heroes of the resistance movement, all our allied comrades and auxiliaries, and numerous civilians who played a vital role in releasing our country from the bondage of the enemy and securing the freedom that we now enjoy," said Lorenzana's message read by Lactao.

Australian Embassy deputy chief of mission Mathieson Kimberly, for her part, assured the Filipinos and the WWII veterans of her country's commitment in the rebuilding of Marawi, and its partnership in the war against extremists and terrorists in the Asia-Pacific region.

In this year's Leyte Landing celebration, Minister Takehiro Kano, deputy chief of mission and head of the political section of the Japan Embassy, in his message said his country no longer have to expressed its remorse over the atrocities of the Japanese soldiers during the occupation. He vowed that his country would continue to provide unity and dedication in helping the Philippines attain economic development.

"Japan now a country of peace-loving citizens; as we are also giving our hands for a lasting peace and help one another in maintaining peace," Kano added.

Only close to 50 war veterans attended this year's commemorative celebration of the 73rd Leyte Landing. Officials of Leyte and dignitaries–from the US, Japan and Australia–also paid tribute to the soldiers and veterans who fought and died during that fateful day of liberation. (FREEMAN)