MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has declared April 9, 2023, a regular holiday in the Philippines to observe the 83rd Araw ng Kagitingan, or Day of Valor.
The annual event honors the bravery and sacrifices of Filipino and American soldiers during World War II, particularly during the Fall of Bataan and the Resistance in Corregidor.
The proclamation, issued through Proclamation No. 727, aims to recognize the contributions of these soldiers in defending the country.
It also encourages Filipinos to take part in the 2025 Philippine Veterans Week, which will be held from April 5 to 11.
The week-long celebration is organized by the Department of National Defense and the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), in partnership with various other agencies.