GUEST COLUMNIST
On Oct. 20, 1944, the shores of Leyte witnessed a monumental moment in both Philippine and global history—the landing of US and Philippine forces led by General Douglas MacArthur, which marked the beginning of the end of Japanese occupation in the Philippines during World War II. The battle that ensued on the plains of Leyte became a turning point in the Pacific theater of the war, as it not only signaled the liberation of the Philippines but also reaffirmed the deep bond between the Filipino and American people.
This year, as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of this historic event, it serves not only as a reminder of the sacrifices of our World War II veterans but also as a reflection of how far our nation has come since those dark days.
As the country reflects on the bravery of the past, we are called to ponder the relevance of this commemoration for our present and future.
A time to remember
The Leyte Landing is etched into our national consciousness as a symbol of heroism, hope, and the fulfillment of a promise. When Gen. MacArthur waded ashore and declared, “I have returned,” it wasn’t just a statement of military strategy; it was a vow to the Filipino people that their freedom would be restored. Beside him were Filipino soldiers and guerrillas who fought valiantly for their homeland, standing shoulder to shoulder with their allies.
For many, the Leyte Landing signifies more than just a military operation—it embodies the struggle and eventual triumph of freedom over tyranny. This was not just a victory in war but a testament to the resilience and fighting spirit of the Filipino people.
At this year’s commemoration, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. stands at the helm, representing the continuity of leadership from his father’s era to the present. This fact carries both historical and symbolic weight. During the presidency of Ferdinand Marcos Sr., the Philippines witnessed profound changes, including the acknowledgment of World War II veterans’ contributions. Today, President Marcos Jr. stands before us as a leader who, like those before him, faces the challenge of securing and nurturing the freedoms for which our veterans fought.
Honoring our veterans
For many of us, World War II veterans are not distant figures in history books; they are our fathers, grandfathers, and relatives who fought in one of the most challenging times in human history. While many of these brave men and women have passed on, their legacy lives on in their descendants and in the memory of a grateful nation.
The descendants of these veterans are not merely passive witnesses to their forebears' sacrifice. As we participate in this year’s commemoration, we are called to carry the torch of their memory forward. We must continue to fight for the values they defended: freedom, democracy, and justice. As Filipinos, we must ensure that their sacrifice was not in vain by continuing to defend the freedoms they fought so hard to secure.
The role of the present generation
The commemoration of the Leyte Landing is not only an opportunity to reflect on the past but also a time to look ahead. Today’s generation faces its own battles—different in nature but no less significant. We are confronted with threats to democracy, both within and outside our borders, in the form of political instability, economic challenges, and external pressures that test our sovereignty.
As we remember the courage of our veterans, we are reminded that the defense of freedom is a continuous effort. The Philippines today may not face the same existential threats that our forebears did during World War II, but the principles of self-determination, democracy, and unity that they fought for remain under constant pressure.
Just as the country’s leadership during World War II played a crucial role in guiding the nation through its darkest days, today’s leaders must continue to steer the country toward progress, unity, and resilience.
A celebration of unity and hope
At its core, the celebration of the Leyte Landing is a reminder of the strength that comes from unity. The liberation of the Philippines would not have been possible without the collaboration between Filipino and American forces, as well as the collective will of the Filipino people. In today’s increasingly fragmented world, the message of unity is perhaps more relevant than ever.
As we commemorate this historic event, we are reminded that the strength of our nation lies in its people. Whether in times of war or peace, the Filipino spirit endures, driven by hope, resilience, and a deep commitment to the values of freedom and democracy.
President Marcos Jr.’s participation in this commemoration is a symbolic bridge between the past and the future—a recognition of the sacrifices of our veterans and a call for the present generation to continue their fight for a better, freer, and more prosperous Philippines.
As we remember Leyte, let us be inspired by the heroism of those who came before us and be challenged to live lives that honor their legacy. Their battle may have ended, but our responsibility to carry their values forward continues.
(Lt. Gen. Jaime S. de los Santos served with distinction as a military professional, 42nd Commanding Gen. Philippine Army, 1st Force Commander, UN Multi-National Peacekeeping Force in East Timor, former member, UP Board of Regents and Professorial Lecturer II (part-time), UP-Diliman.)