13 World War II veterans honored in Victory Day rites
By Tara Yap
ILOILO CITY – Thirteen World War II veterans were honored during the 79th Victory Day for Panay, Guimaras, and Romblon Islands on Monday, March 18.
SURVIVING World War II veterans were honored during the 79th Victory of Panay, Guimaras, and Romblon Islands on Monday, March 18. (PVAO Iloilo)
Iloilo Gov. Arthur “Toto” Defensor Jr. and the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), represented by retired Col. Maria Sheila Jardiolin, distributed the awards to veterans and their families at the Balantang Memorial National Shrine in this city.
Eight of the 13 awardees are living – Corporal Simon A. Hinola, Private First Class Gregorio M. de Asis, Private First Class Abello A. Eler, Private First Class Claro O. Daulo, Private Angeles M. Calmorin, Private First Class Espiridion R. Dalida, Private Resurrecion M. Salazar, and Sgt. Pablo A. Balsamo.
Glenn Castañares of PVAO-Iloilo said posthumous service medals were given to deceased veterans Sgt. Nicholas J. Pulmones, Private Filomeno F. Flamiano, Private Joaquin C. Katipunan, Private Potenciano N. Madrigal, and Private Francisco Dimalaluan.
Also present during the awarding were Brig. Gen. Michael Samson of the 301st Infantry Brigade (IB) of the Philippine Army and Police Brig. Gen. Jack Wanky of the Police Regional Office (PRO-6).