The Korean Navy has honored and visited three Korean War veterans from the Bicol region, recognizing their contributions and sacrifices during the war.
The veterans, who are in their 90s, were honored with tokens of appreciation, including plaques and Korean flags, symbolizing respect and remembrance for their sacrifices.
The veterans, all from Camarines Sur, are:
- 96-year-old 2nd Lieutenant Honorio Templonuevo, Ret. PN
- 92-year-old Sergeant Feliciano Tataro, Ret. PA
- 94-year-old 2nd Lieutenant Basilio Bricia, Ret. PN
These men were among more than 7,400 Filipinos who volunteered with the Philippine Expeditionary Force to Korea (PEFTOK) in the 1950s.
During the ceremony, Tataro became emotional as he recounted his experiences during the Korean War.
“I remember, we fight and fight! No retreat, we only fight as Filipino soldiers,” he said.
The Korean Navy officials praised the veterans for their heroism and their role in fighting alongside Koreans against North Korean forces.
“Without them, we will not be able to win the war, so we want them to give our big[gest] appreciation to them,” LCDR Junheok Na of the Korean Navy, said.
Commander Park Jeong-Won of ROKN Il Chul Bong assured continued support from the Korean government for Filipino PEFTOK veterans.
“Once again I would like to express my gratitude to all the fighting Filipinos, including the three [veterans], who participated in the Korean War, and devoted themselves to the world; and I hope that it will be meaningful to be here today,” Jeong-Won said.
The Korean Navy is currently in Bicol as part of a two-week Pacific Partnership mission in collaboration with the US Navy.
