DAGUPAN CITY – The provincial government of Pangasinan will spearhead the commemoration of the Lingayen Gulf landings and Pangasinan Veterans Day on January 9.
In Executive Order No. 0252-2022, Governor Ramon Guico III said the commemoration of the Lingayen Gulf landings is in remembrance of the historic landings of the Allied Forces led by General Douglas MacArthur at the Lingayen Gulf that led to the liberation of Luzon and eventually of the Philippines and the Pacific area from the Japanese imperial forces.
“The province likewise observes the Pangasinan Veterans Day as institutionalized by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan through Provincial Ordinance No. 331-2007,” Governor Guico said in the order.
Guico said these historical events honor the bravery, sacrifice, and patriotism of Filipinos, particularly Pangasinan guerillas of World War II, soldiers, other freedom fighters and present-day heroes.
“As a fitting tribute to them and to the ideals of our forefathers, the provincial government shall celebrate the commemoration of the 78th anniversary of the Lingayen Gulf landings and the 16th Pangasinan Veterans Day on January 9, 2023,” he added.
Among the activities for the commemoration include a thanksgiving mass, wreath laying ceremony, and commemorative program at the Veterans Memorial Park.
The province will also stage the “War of our Fathers” photo and artifact exhibit, film showing, medical mission, and distribution of financial assistance. By APRIL M. MONTES-BRAVO