PH, US highlight security ties in marking end of WW II

Baguio, Philippines - The Philippines and the United States marked the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, or Victory Day, by highlighting a shared wartime history and the importance of strengthening security ties, in a ceremony at the US ambassador’s residence in Camp John Hay in Baguio City on Wednesday, Sept. 3.

US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson and Baguio Mayor Benjamin Magalong led the commemoration at the site where Japanese Imperial Army Gen. Tomoyuki Yamashita surrendered to the Allied forces on Sept. 3, 1945.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro and Veterans Affairs Undersecretary Reynaldo Mapagu were present as well.

“The liberation of the Philippines during World War II was a triumph of the extraordinary bravery of Allied forces and the indomitable spirit of the Filipino people,” Carlson said.

“This shared struggle forged a special relationship between our two nations, rooted in mutual respect, trust, and an unwavering commitment to the safety and prosperity of future generations of Filipinos and Americans,” she added.

Four World War II veterans, namely, Sixta Quiñones Favila, Angelo Viloria Andrada, Florence Rimando Marasigan, and Ernesto Carreon Luis, were honored during the ceremony.

Luis led the ringing of a ceremonial bell at 12:10 p.m., the exact time of Yamashita’s surrender.

Teodoro drew parallels between the lessons of the war and the current defense posture. He warned against complacency, saying that while the country has avoided large-scale conflict since 1945, new threats are emerging that require vigilance and preparation.

“Years have passed since the end of conflict, and fortunately, we have not been involved in any conflict on the scale of World War II. However, can we rest on our laurels?” Teodoro said.

“We must build the spine of our country, our armed forces, to deter any threat against our territory, our people and our freedom,” he said.

He added that defense is no longer limited to military battles alone but covers non-military threats such as natural disasters, cyberattacks, and economic competition.

Teodoro said the Armed Forces of the Philippines must modernize and work in tandem with other instruments of national power to ensure the country is ready to deter and respond to these challenges.