In a poignant reminder of fading history, Davao City officials announced on Monday that only three World War II veterans remain in the city, highlighting the critical need to preserve their legacy as the Philippines prepares to commemorate Araw ng Kagitingan on April 9, 2026. Remedios Josol, regional head of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office in Davao Region, shared this update during the Kapehan sa Dabaw event at SM City Davao on April 6, 2026.
Urgent Call to Honor Dwindling Veteran Population
Josol stated, "Only three of them are left in Davao City, and the public can still meet them during the Araw ng Kagitingan activities." This announcement comes shortly after the passing of Teofilo Gamutan, one of the city's oldest veterans, who died at age 101 on Good Friday, April 3, 2026. Gamutan, a centenarian war hero, had been a familiar figure at memorial events, such as the wreath-laying ceremony for Araw ng Kagitingan in Davao City in 2023.
Profiles of the Remaining Veterans
The surviving veterans in Davao City include two individuals aged 98 and 101, along with Florante Mallari, 100, who served as a Filipino soldier and Philippine Scout from 1946 to 1949 during the postwar reorganization. Across the broader Davao Region, the total number of World War II veterans has dwindled to just five, with one each residing in Tagum City and Mati City.
Due to advanced age and health challenges, many veterans can no longer attend recognition ceremonies. In such cases, spouses often receive honors on their behalf. Currently, only one awardee remains alive, accompanied by approximately 30 surviving spouses who continue to uphold their partners' legacies.
Commemorative Activities for Araw ng Kagitingan
Josol outlined a series of events planned for this year's Araw ng Kagitingan observance, designed to engage the community and pay tribute to veterans. Key activities include:
- A sunrise ceremony in collaboration with the Bureau of Fire Protection.
- A wreath-laying ceremony at the Veteran's Monument.
- A candle offering at Magsaysay Park on April 9.
She emphasized that the celebration extends beyond World War II veterans to encompass all Filipinos who have served the nation. "Celebrating Araw ng Kagitingan does not end with our senior veterans. It extends to all retirees and those who have served our country," Josol remarked.
Government Support and Benefits
In recent years, the government has enhanced support for veterans and their families. Josol highlighted that benefits now extend to the families of fallen soldiers, including minor children of those killed in ambushes. "The children of soldiers killed in ambushes, especially minors, are now considered dependents and can receive benefits," she explained.
Healthcare improvements have also been prioritized, though a dedicated veterans hospital has yet to be established. Josol noted, "In the past two years, we have ensured veterans have access to hospital beds, including separate wards for male and female patients."
Historical Recognition and Ongoing Efforts
Josol recalled the awarding of the United States Congressional Gold Medal to Filipino veterans, a prestigious honor that included 15 recipients from Davao City. However, only five of these medalists survive today, a reduction attributed to the pandemic. She mentioned that earlier initiatives providing replica medals have since been discontinued.
Despite these challenges, both national and local governments remain steadfast in their commitment to honoring Filipino veterans. Josol affirmed that ongoing efforts focus on recognizing their invaluable service and ensuring their stories are not forgotten as the last survivors fade from memory.
