We
celebrate the valour of Filipino and American soldiers during the Japanese rule
of the Philippines during World War II by celebrating "araw ng
kagitingan”. It is quite amazing that the captive warriors remained resolute
despite their defeat and it is only one of the many reasons why they deserve to
be called "heroes" and acknowledged for their contributions to the
Philippines' democracy and freedom.
MacArthur's army in the Battle of Bataan comprised of tens of thousands of poorly trained and equipped Filipino reservists, as well as 22,000 American forces, these were essentially a mix of "spirit-and-polish" garrison troops without combat experience, artillerymen, a small handful of plane-less pilots and ground personnel, and sailors whose ships happened to be in port as Japanese forces destroyed Manila and its naval yards. This suggests that they were already at a disadvantage at the start, but Filipinos should be proud of their fortitude and sacrifices for the country.
Despite
a paucity of supplies, American and Filipino troops fought the Japanese for
three months. It's incredible how Filipinos, despite a lack of adequate
equipment and high-tech supplies, can fight and protect our nation to the point
of risking their lives.
Filipinos' fortitude is genuinely unique, and our ability to remain calm in the face of adversity may be regarded the true resilience that a country need. Continuously observing patriotism and love for the nation in all forms, as well as the fortitude and bravery that our heroes shown for the country, is a requirement. And the battling spirit with which we go about our everyday lives will hopefully soon be the key to obtaining what we desire.
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