The Philippine Army officially opened the 2025 Philippine Veterans’ Week and the 83rd Araw ng Kagitingan with a solemn Sunrise Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Libingan ng mga Bayani, Taguig City, on April 5.
Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Roy M. Galido served as the Guest of Honor and Speaker during the ceremony, emphasizing the nation’s duty to remember the sacrifices of Filipino veterans.
In his message, Lt. Gen. Galido urged younger generations to take on the responsibility of preserving the legacy of veterans by embodying the same courage, resilience, and loyalty to the country.
“To the present and younger generation, I call on you to ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten. The responsibility of safeguarding these intangible treasures now rests upon our shoulders,” he said.
He encouraged Filipinos to honor the values for which veterans fought and to raise a new generation of heroes who will continue their patriotic legacy.
The 2025 Veterans’ Week centers around the theme “Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas,” underscoring the veterans’ role as a foundation for national development.
Among the week-long commemorative activities are the Sunrise Ceremony, symbolizing new hope for the nation, and the Sunset Ceremony, which concludes the observance at dusk.
The highlight of the celebration will be the nationwide commemoration of Araw ng Kagitingan on April 9.