The American Legion 'Battle of Davao' Post 66 commemorated Memorial Day at the Filipino American Veterans Masonic Memorial Park in Wireless, Davao City, on May 25, 2026. The legion honored the fallen heroes at the Unknown Soldiers gravesite through a short program. The observance of Memorial Day serves as a reminder of the shared history between the Philippines and the United States of America.
Keynote Remarks by Retired Brigadier General Leoncio A. Cirunay Jr.
Retired Brigadier General Leoncio A. Cirunay Jr., commander of the 11th Standby Division Reserve of the Philippine Army, emphasized that the commemoration is dedicated to the brave men and women who have served the country. He stated that the sacrifices of fallen soldiers are a testament that freedom and peace are never free. 'The names engraved in memorials and the memories carried by families remind us that behind every flag-draped coffin was a son, a daughter, a father, a mother, a brother, a sister, or a friend who answered the call of service above self,' he said. Cirunay added that honoring fallen soldiers goes beyond ceremonies; it involves living with integrity, unity, and gratitude for the freedom they defended. He thanked all fallen veterans for their service and for setting an example of patriotism and dedication.
Terry Robbins on Memorial Day vs. Veterans Day
Terry Robbins, commander of American Legion 'Battle of Davao' Post 66, clarified the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Memorial Day honors those who died during military service, while Veterans Day recognizes all veterans. Robbins shared a personal account of his military service, recalling the loss of friends during the September 11, 2001 attacks. He noted that many veterans still carry physical and emotional scars from war. Robbins stressed that the true way to honor the fallen is to live in a manner worthy of their sacrifice. This includes strengthening communities, helping fellow veterans, supporting military families, and educating the next generation about the meaning of Memorial Day. 'We must ensure that our children and grandchildren understand that the freedoms they inherit were paid for with courage, service, and sacrifice,' he said.
Preserving History for the Youth
Cirunay also urged that younger generations should know that Filipinos fought alongside Americans during World War II and must remember those sacrifices. He expressed concern that history is no longer a focus for the youth and emphasized the duty of older generations to remind them of the past. Memorial Day traces its origins to the American Civil War, when communities honored fallen soldiers with ceremonies and grave decorations. It was officially declared Decoration Day by General John A. Logan and later evolved into Memorial Day, becoming a federal holiday in 1971. It is observed every last Monday of May.
The Battle of Davao
The Battle of Davao was a key engagement to liberate Davao and Mindanao during World War II, involving U.S. and Filipino forces freeing the city from Japanese troops. The U.S. 24th Division entered the city on May 3, 1945, facing little initial opposition. By mid-May, the U.S. 19th Infantry, supported by Filipino guerrillas, outflanked the Japanese and drove them into the countryside, leading to the collapse of the Japanese 100th Division. The battle formally ended on June 10, 1945. The 24th Infantry Division suffered about 350 dead and 1,615 wounded, while Filipino troops and guerrillas had 2,800 killed and 7,455 wounded. The Japanese 100th Division suffered 4,500 casualties.
