BACOLOD City – The Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) Committee on History and Veterans Affairs is moving to institutionalize the recognition and tribute to deceased war veterans in this city through the establishment of a war memorial monument.
Councilor Wilson Gamboa Jr., chairperson of the said committee, said the initiative seeks to honor the heroism and sacrifices of Filipino war veterans who fought for the freedom, sovereignty, and dignity of the nation. He emphasized that the proposed measure also aims to inspire the younger generation to uphold patriotism and emulate the courage of the country’s heroes.
Gamboa recently filed an ordinance institutionalizing the recognition of deceased war veterans, which was approved on first reading during last week’s SP regular session.
“Honoring our war veterans and memorializing their heroic deeds will help promote a stronger sense of nationalism and civic duty among Bacolodnons,” he said.
The councilor cited Republic Act 10066, or the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009, which provides a legal framework for the protection and conservation of the Philippines’ cultural heritage, including monuments. The law recognizes the significance of memorials in preserving the country’s historical legacy and paying tribute to notable individuals and events.
As part of the proposed ordinance, the City of Bacolod will identify a historically significant location for the construction of the monument. The memorial will feature the engraved names of deceased war veterans from Bacolod and highlight their contributions to the country’s defense and freedom.
The proposed project underscores the city’s commitment to ensuring that the legacy of its heroes lives on — not just in memory, but as a lasting symbol of national pride and remembrance./PN
