4 Pangasinan

Told that he still looks handsome and is possibly a “chickboy” (heartthrob) during his younger years, he said in jest, “Siyempre (Of course).”

Some 30 oldest Pangasinan World War II veterans were accorded the US Congressional Gold Medal at the Sison Auditorium in Lingayen in a ceremony led by US Embassy Senior Defense Officer Stephen Ma and Pangasinan Gov. Amado Espino III.

Australian Ambassador Steven Robinson, along with other Australian and provincial officials, also led the inauguration of the Royal Australian Navy Marker.

“The celebration of the 75th Lingayen Gulf Landings Anniversary and the 13th Pangasinan Veterans’ Day is to commemorate and honor the WWII veterans and their colleagues whose perseverance and resolve ultimately led to the liberation of the Philippines from invading hostile forces through the Lingayen Gulf,” the marker read.

“Among these veterans were soldiers from the Royal Australian Navy whose camaraderie proved to be a vital strength in the pursuit of freedom. Together with representatives from the Royal Australian Navy and the Australian embassy, the provincial government of Pangasinan is proud to unveil this marker to pay tribute to the significance of Australian-Filipino relations and to memorialize the growth of this remarkably historical and noble friendship,” it added.

Meanwhile, Vice Gov. Mark Lambino said in his speech that on momentous events such as yesterday’s event, “we are reminded of the bravery, resilience and sacrifice of our fellow countrymen in the face of severe adversity.”

“Indeed their sacrifices and efforts are immeasurable and incomparable,” Lambino said.

For Espino, the veterans’ sacrifices will never be in vain and their memory will remain.

“We will teach the next generation about being grateful and to know how to love. If you know how to love, you will know how to sacrifice,” he said.