PVB Honors Filipino WWII Veterans at the 80th Leyte Gulf Landings Commemoration
Leyte, Philippines — October 20, 2024: Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB) proudly participated in the 80th Leyte Gulf Landings commemoration, honoring the bravery and sacrifice of Filipino and Allied forces during World War II. This year’s event paid special tribute to Filipino soldiers and the guerilla fighters whose efforts were instrumental in the liberation of Leyte.
In partnership with the Provincial Government of Leyte, PVB unveiled the expanded “War of Our Fathers” Traveling Exhibit, which features 100 panels of photos, with panels dedicated to the Battle of Leyte.
The commemoration began with a Wreath-Laying Ceremony at MacArthur Memorial Park, where veterans, local officials, and dignitaries gathered to honor those who fought for the Philippines’ freedom. As part of the day’s activities, a Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for the newly expanded exhibit was held at the Leyte Convention Complex. PVB was joined by distinguished guests of honor: House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, Leyte Governor Carlos Jericho L. Petilla, and Frances Ann Petilla, Tourism Consultant for the Province of Leyte, alongside other local government officials. The exhibit includes a special tribute wall where guests of honor wrote their messages honoring the sacrifices and contributions of veterans.
The exhibit, featuring rare wartime photos, artifacts, and documents, vividly tells the stories of Filipino freedom fighters, including guerillas who risked their lives in the fight for liberation. “We are honored to showcase this expanded exhibit as a tribute to our heroes, ensuring that future generations remember their sacrifices,” said Renato A. Claravall, President and CEO of PVB. The exhibit serves as a central element of the commemoration, emphasizing PVB’s commitment to preserving the history and legacy of Filipino World War II veterans.
Among the guerilla heroes honored was General Ruperto K. Kangleon, a key figure in the resistance against Japanese forces in Leyte. As a former military officer, Kangleon organized and led guerilla activities that played a pivotal role in sabotaging Japanese operations and providing intelligence to Allied forces. His leadership significantly contributed to the success of the Leyte landings, ensuring the liberation of the island and bolstering the Philippine fight for freedom.
Another inspiring story highlighted at the event was that of Boy Scout Valeriano Abello from Tolosa, whose semaphore skills aided U.S. forces during the Battle of Leyte. Abello’s quick thinking helped direct Allied artillery attacks, ensuring civilian areas were spared. Along with his companions Vicente Tiston and Antero Zunia, he signaled Allied ships using white cloths, famously preventing unnecessary bombing of civilian-inhabited beaches.
“General Ruperto Kangleon, Valeriano Abello, and their fellow guerillas represent the courage and selflessness of the Filipino resistance during the war,” said Claravall. “Their legacy reminds us that the fight for freedom was waged not only on the battlefield but also in the hearts of ordinary citizens who took extraordinary risks for their country.”
The day’s events continued with a Commemorative Lunch, where PVB joined in honoring 14 living World War II veterans, presenting each of them with a special token of appreciation in recognition of their invaluable contributions. As part of its ongoing commitment to supporting veterans, PVB also sponsored a Medical Mission in partnership with the Veterans Federation of the Philippines and other organizations, providing healthcare services to veterans and their families.
Through these commemorative events and the exhibit, PVB continues to shed light on the heroic efforts of Filipino soldiers and guerillas, preserving their stories for future generations. These efforts reaffirm the bank’s mission to honor the legacy of its World War II veteran shareholders and ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten.
