A solemn wreath-laying and a 21-gun salute marked the 80th anniversary of the historic Lingayen Gulf Landing and the 18th Pangasinan Veterans Day at the Capitol Beachfront in Lingayen, Pangasinan.

The event commemorated the landing of Allied Forces, led by General Douglas MacArthur on January 9, 1945, which began the liberation of Luzon from Japanese occupation during World War II.

Governor Ramon Guico III urged everyone to keep the memory of this historic event alive.

“I once again urge you to continue encouraging others to preserve this commemoration as an important part of Pangasinan and Philippine’s history… Let us continue to preserve the celebration as a vital part of our cultural tradition,” he said.

The ceremony featured colorful cultural performances and prayers for the nation.

As of today, there are over 900 living war veterans across the Philippines, with 25 residing in Pangasinan, according to the Department of National Defense’s Civil, Veterans, and Reserve Affairs Office.

“Let their example serve as an inspiration to confront the challenges of our own time. Challenges that demand unwavering determination, discipline, love for country, and unity,” Undersecretary Pablo Lorenzo of the Department of National Defense said.

To honor their heroism, the provincial government announced financial assistance for the veterans.