LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – The 77th anniversary of the Lingayen Gulf Landings and 15th Pangasinan Veterans’ Day this year was made simple yet meaningful amid the pandemic.
Every year on Jan. 9, the provincial government celebrates the landing of the American General Douglas MacArthur who led the liberation of Luzon Island during the second world war and honors the bravery of Pangasinense veterans who fought for the country’s independence against the Japanese occupation.
Unlike in the past, this year’s celebration was given a solemn commemoration at the Pangasinan Veterans’ Park at the back of the Provincial Capitol building here.
Due to the restrictions being imposed brought about by the pandemic, no veterans attended the celebration this year.
However, a wreath-laying ceremony led by Governor Amado Espino III, capped with a 21-gun salute highlighted the event.
Pangasinan Police Provincial director Col. Richmond Tadina; Armed Forces of the Philippines 702nd and Infantry Defender Brigade Commander Krishnamurti Mortela; Floro Fabia Castro and Marlyn Pizaarrras, children of World War II Pangasinense veterans joined the governor.