BACOLOD CITY — Mayor Greg Gasataya led the City Government of Bacolod in commemorating the 84th Araw ng Kagitingan on April 9, 2026, at the Bacolod City Government Center Grounds, honoring the courage and heroism of Filipino veterans while recognizing their enduring legacy for future generations.
Mayor Gasataya underscored how the spirit of heroism continues to manifest in everyday life: “Ang giting o ang tapang ay ipinapakita natin araw-araw sa ating pagbangon, sa kabila ng fuel crisis na ating hinaharap. Ang patuloy na pagtatrabaho ng mga empleyado, serbisyo ng transport sector, pag-aaral ng mga estudyante, at suporta ng ating mga negosyante ay patunay ng giting at tapang ng mga Bacolodnon.” “Kahapon, sinimulan natin sa mga tricycle drivers at ipagpapatuloy natin ito sa buong transport sector.”
A key highlight of the ceremony was the Pagbibigay Pugay at Pag-aalay ng mga Bulaklak, led by Mayor Gasataya together with BGEN Ted Dumosmog of the Philippine Army, honoring the city’s veterans. Members of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines assisted in the ceremonial offering, symbolizing the passing of legacy from one generation to the next. The program formally opened with the entrance of colors, followed by the Dasal ng Pagkakaisa led by Father Norbert Ma. Cañada and Pastor Dave King, reflecting unity and shared gratitude among different faiths. This was followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and patriotic songs performed by Coro Bacoleño, whose musical renditions added solemnity and pride to the ceremony. Key highlights also included the recitation of the Panunumpa sa Watawat ng Pilipinas and Panunumpa sa Bagong Pilipinas, reaffirming the commitment of Bacolodnons to uphold patriotism, integrity, and public service.
The Kasaysayan ng Araw ng Kagitingan was read by City Administrator Atty. Mark Steven Mayo, providing historical context and deepening appreciation of the sacrifices made by Filipino heroes during World War II, particularly in Bataan. Messages from government officials emphasized the importance of remembering the bravery of Filipino soldiers and drawing inspiration from their sacrifices in facing present-day challenges. In his message, Councilor Thaddy Sayson highlighted the continuing relevance of the occasion: “Ang Araw ng Kagitingan ay mahalaga dahil ginugunita natin ang katapangan at sakripisyo ng mga sundalong Pilipino na lumaban para sa kalayaan ng bansa noong Ikalawang Digmaang Pandaigdig, lalo na sa labanan sa Bataan. Una, ito ay pagbibigay-parangal sa ating mga bayani; pangalawa, pagpapakita ng pagmamahal sa ating bayan; at pangatlo, pagpapanatili ng ating kasaysayan.” Carmelli Bantug-Zayco, who delivered the message on behalf of Congressman Albee Benitez, called on citizens to embrace their role in nation-building: “Tayo ay isang bansa ng mga bayani. Ang kabayanihan ay hindi lamang isang matayog na pangarap kundi isang responsibilidad na pinapataw sa atin. Nasa atin kung tutugon tayo sa tawag ng panahon.”
The event was attended by city officials, department heads, local government representatives, and uniformed personnel from the Philippine National Police, Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, and the Philippine Army, alongside veterans and various sectoral representatives. The ceremony also featured an interpretative dance presentation and concluded with a community singing of “Pilipinas Kong Mahal,” reinforcing a strong sense of nationalism and unity. In closing, Councilor Homer Bais emphasized the essence of patriotism: “Tandaan natin, ang kagitingan ay hindi lamang sa digmaan—ito ay nasa puso ng bawat Pilipinong nagmamahal sa bayan. Makabuluhang Araw ng Kagitingan sa ating lahat. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas, mabuhay ang Pilipino, mabuhay ang Bacolod!” The City Government reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the memory of the nation’s heroes and ensuring that their valor continues to inspire future generations. (Bacolod City Communications Office)
