BY MA THERESA LADIAO
IN commemorating the 79th Liberation of Panay, Romblon, and Guimaras Islands on March 18, stories of courage, sacrifice, and resilience echo through the generations. Among the revered figures is Abello Eler, a 103-year-old veteran of World War II, whose remarkable journey during the war continues to inspire.
Abello’s granddaughter, Kim Eler-Paloma, shares snippets of her grandfather’s remarkable life with Panay News.
Abello, born in 1920, was a member of the Panay Guerilla Forces and actively engaged in the resistance against the Imperial Japanese Forces that occupied the region.
Despite his advanced age, Abello remains in remarkably good health today, a testament to his resilience and inner strength.
Kim fondly describes him as a kind and gentle soul, always obedient and respectful— traits that have endeared him to his family.
According to Kim, Abello vividly remembers his wartime experiences, recalling details of battles, comrades, and moments of peril with remarkable clarity. Despite sustaining injuries during combat, including gunshot wounds to his hand and feet, Abello’s spirit remained intact.
One particular anecdote from Abello’s wartime recollections highlights the complexities of human nature amidst conflict. Despite the brutality of war, Abello recounts encounters with Japanese individuals who showed kindness and compassion, a testament to the nuanced dynamics of wartime relationships.
Kim recounts a harrowing incident when Abello was injured and sought refuge in Cabatuan Hospital, only to face imminent danger from Japanese soldiers. Miraculously, Abello’s former employer, a Japanese businessman, intervened, sparing his life and demonstrating the unexpected twists of fate in times of war.
Despite the challenges and dangers he faced, Abello’s pride in serving his country as a soldier shines through. Kim emphasizes that her grandfather never expressed fear or trauma from his wartime experiences but instead carries a deep sense of pride in his role as a hero.
Beyond his wartime exploits, Abello is celebrated by his family for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering love. Kim fondly recalls Abello’s gentle demeanor and his profound wisdom, encapsulated in his simple yet profound advice: “Wherever you’re happy, just go with it.”
As Kim reflects on her grandfather’s legacy, she extends a message of gratitude and pride to all current and future members of the armed forces. She acknowledges their sacrifices and contributions to the nation’s defense, echoing sentiments of pride and appreciation shared by civilians like herself.
Abello Eler’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and bravery of those who fought for freedom during World War II. As the nation honors the heroes of the past, Abello’s legacy endures as a beacon of courage and inspiration for generations to come.
79th Victory Day Commemoration
On Monday, March 18, the 79th Liberation of Panay was commemorated at the Balantang Memorial Cemetery National Shrine in Barangay Quintin Salas, Jaro, Iloilo City.
Veterans and their families, as well as Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. of Iloilo, Executive Assistant Jay Treñas of Iloilo City, Philippine Army’s 301st Infantry Brigade commander Brigadier General Michael Samson, Police Regional Office 6 director Jack L. Wanky, and Iloilo City Police Office director Colonel Joeresty Coronica, were present at the ceremony.
The program included the conferring of World War II Service Medals on living heroes and posthumous awardees. Among the living recipients were 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 Sergeant Pablo A. Balsamo. Posthumous honors were conferred upon Sergeant Nicholas J. Pulmones, Private Filomeno F. Flamiano, Private Joaquin C. Katipunan, Private Potenciano N. Madrigal, and Private Francisco Dimalaluan.
Defensor, in his address as the guest of honor, underscored the enduring legacy of sacrifice and the ongoing challenges faced by the nation.
“With the freedom that resulted from the sacrifice of our veterans came the rest of our history,” he said as he paid homage to the veterans whose sacrifices paved the way for the freedom enjoyed today.
He acknowledged the indelible mark left by World War II on the nation’s narrative, stating, “The continuing past of World War II, and with that continuing past and the rest of our history, are the challenges and developments that we continue to face even now.”
Defensor drew parallels between the threats faced during World War II and those encountered in contemporary times. He emphasized that these challenges are not mere obstacles but grave threats, akin to those confronted by the brave veterans who fought for the nation’s freedom.
“In our freedom, we are still facing threats, so let us mark this day to renew our vows together with our veterans, together with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, together with our Philippine National Police, and together with the rest of our people, to continue in our fight for the defense of our country,” he said./PN
