Heroes past, present inspire justice, says DoJ

The Department of Justice (DoJ) said Wednesday that both historical and contemporary heroes remain inspirations for the Philippines in its ongoing pursuit of justice and lasting peace.

In a social media post commemorating Araw ng Kagitingan, the DoJ said that “Their dedication is proof of their unwavering spirit of bravery that inspires us to desire peace and justice for Filipinos.”

It also affirmed its commitment to working alongside the Filipino people in their efforts to achieve justice and peace in the country.

The message was issued on the Day of Valor, a national holiday observed annually on 9 April to remember the Filipino and American soldiers who fought during World War II.

The DoJ cited that it honors “the heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country’s freedom.”

“We also recognize the modern-day heroes who never cease to work for justice and integrity for our country,” the department added.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had declared 9 April a regular holiday to mark the 83rd "Araw ng Kagitingan," which specifically honors the heroism displayed during the Fall of Bataan and the Resistance in Corregidor.

The declaration, made through Proclamation No. 727, also encourages Filipinos to participate in the 2025 Philippine Veterans Week, which spans from 5 to 11 April and spearheaded by the Department of National Defense and the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, in collaboration with other government agencies.

This year’s theme is “Veterans’ Heroism: Foundation of a Progressive New Philippines.”

"Araw ng Kagitingan" marks the surrender of over 76,000 Filipino and American troops to Japanese forces in Bataan in 1942.

Defying the orders of US Generals Douglas MacArthur and Jonathan Wainwright, Major General Edward P. King Jr. made the difficult decision to capitulate in a bid to save the lives of starving and wounded soldiers.