LINGAYEN, Pangasinan — Five of the ten remaining World War II veterans from Pangasinan who witnessed or participated in the historic Lingayen Gulf Landings on January 9, 1945, attended the 81st anniversary commemoration on January 9, 2026, at the Lingayen Gulf War Memorial in the provincial capitol grounds.
The veterans, all in their late 90s to early 100s, were honored with a short program, floral offerings, and a symbolic march-past by AFP troops and ROTC cadets. They received special plaques and tokens of appreciation from the provincial government and the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO).
The Surviving Veterans Present
- Apolinario “Poli” Reyes (99) — Served with the 11th Infantry Division, witnessed the massive American landing fleet.
- Victorino “Vic” Santos (98) — Local guerrilla fighter who provided intelligence to advancing Allied forces.
- Eusebio “Euse” Garcia (100) — One of the oldest present; assisted in guiding U.S. troops through coastal paths.
- Feliciano “Fely” Perez (97) — Joined the post-landing cleanup and supply efforts.
- Juanito “Johnny” Valdez (99) — Provided local knowledge to the 43rd Infantry Division.
The other five surviving veterans were unable to attend due to health reasons but sent messages of remembrance.
Significance of the Event
Provincial Governor Ramon Guico III led the ceremonies, saying:
“These five living witnesses remind us that freedom was not given freely — it was fought for and paid for with blood and sacrifice. Their presence today is a living history lesson for our youth.”
The Lingayen Gulf Landings marked one of the largest amphibious operations in the Pacific Theater, involving over 200,000 Allied troops and paving the way for the liberation of Luzon.
The commemoration included a wreath-laying ceremony, a moment of silence, and a short historical reenactment by local students.
Here are photos from the event — veterans being honored, the wreath-laying, and the symbolic march.
A powerful reminder of courage and sacrifice. 🇵🇭