KIANGAN, Ifugao – The Department of National Defense turned over books and wheelchairs for  ailing veterans during the celebration of 67th Victory Day over the weekend.

Usec. for Civil, Veterans and Reserve Affairs Ernesto Carolina, said the books will be given to libraries for the younger generation to read and have a clear glimpse of what really happened during those dark moments in the country’s history.

Carolina  also turned over two wheelchairs  for  the  sickly veterans. “Our office received a report that some of our veterans are in need of wheelchairs, thus we brought two wheelchairs for them,” he said.

Speaking before a crowd of veterans, their sons and daughters, and local officials, Carolina  commended the veterans for bringing pride to the Filipino nation. “Victory belongs to the Filipinos, who fought with hardship to regain freedom from foreign invaders.”

Sept. 2, 1945 marked the end of WWII with the surrender of Japanese Imperial Army general Tomoyuki Yamashita, the Tiger of Malaya at Nabulaguian Hill here.

He  expressed hope that the sacrifices of the veterans will inspire the youth and ensure that freedom will last.

Rep. Teddy Baguilat Jr. added it is important to remember the dark events of WWII  so it will not be repeated. “History will teach us nothing  if we do not take to heart its lessons.” 

Baguilat believes history will help us build a stronger nation “if we remember with equal fervor those events that led to the end of conflict, events such as Victory Day because those days are a testament to the resilience, bravery and patriotism of our countrymen.”

“Those are values that we must emulate so we may be the new heroes that our country needs,” he added.

He mentioned the late  Interior and Local Government Sec. Jesse Robredo,  whom he said  is one such hero. “The late Jesse Robredo was a man who favored the interest of his constituents over his own welfare by placing his life at risk as he pursued programs that would end corruption.”