Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez underscored the importance of “solidarity” among nations to forge peace as the Philippines commemorates the “Leyte Landings” led by US General Douglas McArthur in October 1944.
“Your presence today is a testament to how far we have come in promoting and protecting our respective national interests – no longer through the destructive contest of arms and violence, but through peaceful diplomatic efforts, which is more sustainable,” he told the foreign diplomats.
“We commend the solidarity of Australia, Japan and the US nations in our shared aspirations for a secure and peaceful region. The Leyte Landing was a turning point in World War II here in Asia,” Romualdez recalled.
The Speaker made his “solidarity message” Sunday during the 80th Commemorative Anniversary held at the MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park in Candahug, Palo and attended by Ambassadors Hae Kyung Yu of Australia, Endo Kazuya of Japan, US Maj. Gen. Matthew McFarlane, Tingog Partylist Rep. Jude Acidre and Leyte 2nd District Rep. Lolita Karen Javier, among others.
“It is a privilege to join you here as we celebrate a singularly significant event in history, not just for the country, but for the world,” the leader of the House of Representatives who also heads the Philippine Constitution Association said.
“These pave the way for the continued development of our respective countries, further strengthening our diplomatic and economic relations and opening up new opportunities, all for our mutual benefit. Let us continue working in this regard,” Romualdez said.
Philippine Veterans Affairs Office Administrator Reynaldo Mapagu, along with local officials led by Leyte Gov. Carlos Jericho Petilla and Palo Mayor Remedios Petilla, attended the event.
“As we celebrate bravery, let us also celebrate the progress we have made in forging peace so that what happened then will not happen again,” said the Speaker, a senior administration stalwart who also heads the ruling Lakas-CMD party.
“We gather together today to honor the brave men and women, whose names may not be as famous as General Douglas MacArthur but made personal sacrifices to be where we are today,” the House chief added.
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