Some one hundred sixty-five bike enthusiasts braved the rains brought by Tropical Storm Hana and the enhanced southwest monsoon to complete the 1st Victory Day bike ride during the celebration of Victory Day in the city last September 3, 2023.
The bike ride was a unique event aimed at honoring the bravery and sacrifices of both Filipino and American soldiers during World War II while also raising funds to help in preserving historical markers and landmarks throughout the city.
The historical event was organized by the Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB) in partnership with the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), the city government, Wartime Heritage Guild Philippines, Without Limits and Salgado PR that saw cycling enthusiasts and history buff alike actively participate in the non-competitive bike ride that fostered a deeper understanding of the city’s significant role during World War II while encouraging active participation in the sport of cycling of all ages and background.
PVB first vice president for marketing and communications Mike Villa-real said that the ride was aimed to shed light in the city’s significant role during World War II and pay homage to the countless heroes who fought for the liberation of the country from the tyrannic Japanese rule.
“More importantly, we hope to make more Filipinos know that there is a Victory Day during World War II and that completes the story,” Villa-real stressed.
Baguio City, often referred to as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, holds a rich and often untold history as a sanctuary for Filipino and American soldiers during World War II. The city is also significant in World War II history because it was among the major cities to be bombed when Japan invaded the Philippine islands on December 8, 1941 because of the presence of Camp John Hay (CJH) and it was also the site where the war ended with the signing of the deed of surrender of Gen. Tomoyoki Yamashita of the Japanese Imperial Army inside the Ambassador’s Residence on September 3, 1945 after his capture in Kiangan, Ifugao on September 2, 1945.
The first Victory Day bike ride was a non-competitive 35.5-kilometer cycling event that covered a route encompassing several historical landmarks. Participants had the opportunity to learn about the city’s war history through informative pit stops and presentations along the way.
‘This event is not just about biking; it’s about preserving history and ensuring that future generations remember and appreciate the sacrifices made during World War II,” Villa-real added.
All proceeds from the bike ride will go towards the restoration and maintenance of historical World War II markers and landmarks in the city, ensuring that the stories of valor and courage are not lost through time.
He added that the historic bike ride is not only a celebration of the city’s history but also a way to give due recognition to the brave men and women who fought for the country’s freedom and an opportunity for the present to connect with the past, honor the war veterans and ensure that the memories of their sacrifices lives on for generations to come.
