‘Draw inspiration from PH troops in Korean War’

RECOGNIZING that “bravery is not easy to muster,” President Rodrigo Duterte encouraged the public to draw inspiration from Filipino soldiers who fought during the Korean War in battling today’s challenges.

Duterte issued the statement as he paid tribute to the bravery and heroism of Filipino soldiers on the 70th anniversary of the start of the Korean War on June 25.

“We must recognize bravery is not easy to muster. We must remember heroism is very seldom seen and we must reaffirm values so sacred they form the bedrock of our special bilateral ties,” Duterte said in a message.

“As the world faces emerging challenges yet, let the memory of those who fell in the Korean War inspire us all to rise together jointly in solidarity,” he added.

Duterte also remembered the Filipino soldiers whose heroism and sacrifice helped defend South Koreans in battles such as the Battle of Yultong and Battle of Hill Eerie.

During the Korean War, more than 100 Filipino soldiers were killed, while others were wounded, went missing in action, or became prisoners of war as part of the more than 7,000 soldiers from the Philippine Expeditionary Forces to Korea.

“Seven decades ago, more than 7,000 young Filipino soldiers joined allies in the Korean War. From the great battle of Yultong to the battle of Eerie Hill, Filipinos never faltered in defending freedom and democratic way of life,”

Duterte said.

“We honor the Filipinos and soldiers of all nations who fought valiantly in that war. There is no other way,” the President added.

Duterte’s call for solidarity came as the country continues to grapple from the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

As of June 25, the Philippines had confirmed 33,069 Covid-19 cases. The figure includes 1,212 deaths and 8,910 recoveries.