Eastern Visayas Army Chief Urges Soldiers, Youth to Uphold WWII Veterans’ Legacy

Posted on October 23, 2026 at 10:32 PM

Palo, Leyte — Eastern Visayas Army chief Major General Peter B. Burgonio urged soldiers and young Filipinos to follow the example of World War II veterans, as only 10 of the country’s surviving war veterans in the region remain alive.

Three of the veterans attended the 82nd anniversary of the Leyte Landing in Candahug, Palo, on October 20, while the other seven were represented by their children and family members.

Burgonio thanked the veterans and their families for their sacrifices, saying the present generation of soldiers must carry on the legacy of those who fought for the country.

“For us, the current generation of soldiers, we will continue to live along that legacy that they have established,” Burgonio said.

As commander of the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division, he also reaffirmed the military’s commitment to defending the country and maintaining peace and security in Eastern Visayas.

Burgonio called on young Filipinos to look beyond their personal interests and devote time and effort to causes that benefit the country.

“Follow the examples of great veterans to sacrifice some of your time, some of your effort in thinking what is good for our country, not just for your individual self,” he said.

He said patriotism and public service are not limited to soldiers, stressing that young people can contribute through their own efforts in their communities.

The Leyte Landing on October 20, 1944, marked the return of Gen. Douglas MacArthur and Allied forces to the Philippines as they began the campaign to liberate the country from Japanese occupation during World War II.

The annual commemoration in Leyte honors those who fought in the war and remembers an event that marked a turning point in the country’s history.

With only a few veterans still alive, their participation also underscored the importance of preserving their experiences and passing their stories on to younger generations.

Photo courtesy of PIA Eastern Visayas