PVB Opens “War of Our Fathers” Exhibit for 80th Victory Day in Panay
March 18, 2025, Iloilo City – Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB) launched the War of Our Fathers – A Brotherhood of Heroes exhibit at the Provincial Capitol of Iloilo to commemorate the 80th Victory Day in Panay, Romblon and Guimaras Islands. In collaboration with the Provincial Government of Iloilo, Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, and the Veterans Federation of the Philippines, the exhibit honors the Filipino guerrillas of the Sixth Military District who liberated Panay before American forces arrived in March 1945.
During the opening ceremony, PVB OIC-President Eulogio V. Catabran III reiterated the Bank’s commitment to preserve the legacy of WWII veterans, acknowledging the presence of 102-year old veteran Pfc Calori O. Daulo during the ceremony. The program featured a Panay historical narrative by Prof. Rey Gonzales (UP Visayas) and messages from, Assistant Secretary Domingo C. Carbonell of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, and Mr. Nereo Lujan (representing the Provincial Government of Iloilo), all emphasizing the sacrifices of Filipino freedom fighters.
Also present at the event was Dr. Engelbert K. Peralta, son of Col. Macario L. Peralta, Jr., who saw firsthand the exhibit panels on the Panay Liberation and his father’s contributions to securing Panay’s freedom.
The exhibit commemorates the Victory Day in Panay marking the island’s liberation from Japanese forces in March 1945. Led by Col. Macario L. Peralta, Jr. and 6th Military District guerillas along with other resistance units from neighboring islands and regions, their coordinated efforts successfully freed Panay before U.S. troops arrived. Among the key figures in this resistance were Col. Agustin Relunia, Lt. Col. Julian Chavez, Lt. Col. Ramon Offemaria, and various local guerilla units played a crucial role in securing the island’s freedom.
The exhibit is open from March 18-30, 2025, invites the public, especially students and historical institutions to explore this significant chapter in Philippine history.
