WWII details on role of vets for history education pressed

By Julie G. Fianza

BAGUIO CITY -- - Local world war II veterans' role in Baguio's liberation  77 years ago, and subsequently the country's freedom from Japanese forces must be integrated in  secondary and college history lessons.
    This was emphasized during the April 27 rites commemorating liberation of Baguio by guest of honor and speaker Undersecretary and Phil. Veteran Affairs Office (PVAO) Administrator Ernesto Carolina.
    He was referring to verified local historical narratives from Filipino freedom fighters and books, two of whom were authored by local Baguio boy Cesar Pobre.
    There are also numerous yet untold heroic acts done by the gallant and courageous local veterans which should be uncovered for they are worth mentioning in our schools for emulation and inspiration, he said.
    A memorial comparable to the Mt. Samat shrine in Pilar, Bataan would also commemorate WWII events and personalities, an act from a whole nation of grateful to the defenders of freedom, Carolina added.
    It is our duty to tell and re-tell the liberation stories for the next generation never to forget, he further said.
    This was echoed by Rep. Marquez Go and Mayor Benjamin Magalong in their liberation day messages.
    Go has authored a congressional bill seeking the inclusion of comprehensive WWII details in secondary and higher education subjects.
    The mayor, who mentioned of the now known as the battle of Irisan, likened our present-day situation as waging war in troubled times, yet winning trials over adversities, towards a comfortable peace.  
    The liberation day program was well-attended by National Executive Secretary of the Philippine Veterans Bank Miguel Angelo Villarreal, some city councilors, PVB Baguio branch representative Jacqueline Eman, Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) head Glenn Lonogan and personnel, veterans of foreign wars, reservists, representatives of the USAFIP-NL, and Sons and daughter of veterans association, inc.