A Salute to Valor: PVB Opens “War of Our Fathers” Exhibit for 80th Palawan Liberation Anniversary

Puerto Princesa, Palawan – April 22, 2025 — In solemn tribute to the heroes of World War II, the Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB), in partnership with the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), the Palawan Liberation Task Force, and SM City Puerto Princesa, officially opened the War of Our Fathers – A Brotherhood of Heroes exhibit in commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of Palawan’s Liberation.

The exhibit honors the bravery and sacrifices of Filipino soldiers, guerrillas, and civilians during the Second World War and stands as a living testament to the enduring spirit of the Filipino people and their unwavering fight for freedom. It features wartime photographs, personal stories, and historical panels, including tributes to the Palawan Fighting 1000 which tells the story of the Palawan Special Battalion, a unified guerrilla force of 1,000 men formed under Major Pablo Muyco of the 6th Military District, USAFFE. On October 14, 1943, Major Muyco took command of various local resistance units, including those led by Capt. Mendoza, Lt. Felipe Batul, Capt. Carlos Amores, and Capt. Nazario Mayor, under a General Order that was immediately recognized by U.S. forces. This battalion played a vital role in intelligence gathering and ambuscades, and later participated in the mopping-up operations during the liberation of Puerto Princesa on February 25, 1945.

The exhibit also shows photographs and narratives of the tragic 1944 Palawan Massacre at Plaza Cuartel and the underground resistance movement led by Capt. Higinio Mendoza Sr., who was executed by Japanese forces for his role in organizing opposition against the occupation.

PVB OIC-President Mr. Eulogio V. Catabran III formally opened the exhibit and emphasized the Bank’s mission to preserve and promote the legacy of Filipino war veterans. “We in Veterans Bank are committed to remembering and retelling the stories of our World War II heroes. After all, they and their families are our original shareholders. It is our hope that by going through the panels and displays, you will have a higher appreciation and a greater respect for our fathers, our Veterans”, he said.

Department of National Defense (DND) Undersecretary Reynaldo B. Mapagu, Administrator of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, and DND Undersecretary for Civil Veterans and Reserve Affairs Pablo M. Lorenzo delivered key messages that emphasized the relevance of honoring the memory of the nation’s defenders. Puerto Princesa Mayor Lucilo R. Bayron, represented by City Tourism Officer Demetrio Alvior Jr., shared words of support and civic pride, while Cesar Magbanua, Chief of Staff of the Governor, delivered the keynote message on behalf of Governor Victorino Dennis M. Socrates.

The exhibit is located at the second level of SM City Puerto Princesa and will run until May 6, 2025. The public is invited to visit and reflect on this important part of our nation’s history and be inspired by the bravery and love of country of our war heroes.