The University of the Philippines-Diliman (UPD) and the Reserve Command, Philippine Army (RCPA) joined forces for the first-ever “Freedom March” on the UP Diliman campus to commemorate Araw ng Kagitingan on April 9, 2025.
More than a thousand participants, including reservists, ROTC cadets, personnel from the NCR Defense Group, RCPA members, and UP faculty, attended the historic event aimed at honoring Filipino war heroes.
The activity began with a symbolic campus-wide march and culminated in a solemn Flag Raising Ceremony held at the iconic Oblation Monument within the university grounds.
Maj. Gen. Ramon Zagala, Commander of the RCPA, served as Guest of Honor and delivered a rousing speech highlighting the enduring significance of Araw ng Kagitingan as a national day of remembrance and challenge.
“Araw ng Kagitingan is not just a holiday—it’s a reminder. A call. A challenge to remember those who came before us and to be ready to follow in their footsteps, in our ways, in our own time,” said MGen. Zagala.
Representing UPD Chancellor Edgardo Carlo Vistan was Professor Jerwin Agpaoa, Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs, who also took part in the ceremony.
The Philippine Army commended UP Diliman and the Reserve Command for organizing a meaningful initiative that fosters patriotism and unity, especially among the youth.
The event emphasized the crucial role of the younger generation in carrying forward the legacy of Filipino heroism, courage, and resilience amid the country’s modern challenges.