US honors Filipino WWII veterans in Tagum, strengthens Davao ties

The United States honored Filipino World War II veterans in Tagum and reinforced economic and education partnerships in Davao as both countries mark 80 years of diplomatic relations.

US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires, a.i., Y. Robert Ewing led the awarding of the Congressional Gold Medal to Filipino veterans in Tagum, the first such ceremony in the city and the second held in Mindanao.

Ewing was joined by Philippine Defense Undersecretary Pablo Lorenzo, Philippine Veterans Affairs Office Administrator Reynaldo Mapagu and Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib during the 45th presentation of the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor conferred by the US Congress.

The medals were authorized under the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2015 and recognize the valor and sacrifice of Filipino veterans who fought alongside US forces in the Pacific during World War II.

“When their nation called, they stepped forward. They answered,” Ewing said. “And in doing so, they not only shaped the course of history but also forged the enduring friendship between the Philippines and the United States – a relationship built on shared sacrifice, mutual trust, and deeply held values.”

Mapagu noted the significance of continuing recognition efforts as the number of surviving veterans declines.

“The number of living Filipino World War II veterans continues to decline with each passing day, but through commemoration activities and recognition such as the awarding of the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal for Filipino World War II veterans, their heroic legacy will live on,” he said.

In Davao City, Ewing met with local officials and business leaders to explore trade, investment and education partnerships. He toured the National Museum of the Philippines-Davao with city councilors, investment officials and alumni of US government exchange programs.

The discussions covered opportunities to expand trade and investment, strengthen education and exchange initiatives and revive sister city relationships.

At a general membership meeting of the Mindanao chapter of the American Chamber of Commerce, Ewing highlighted efforts to enhance supply chain resilience and expand energy cooperation, as well as opportunities for two-way trade and investment, including participation in the upcoming SelectUSA Investment Summit.

He also visited participants of the US Embassy’s English Access Scholarship Program, a two-year after-school initiative that provides English language training to public school students aged 13 to 15.

“Chargé d’Affaires Ewing’s visit to the 50 English Access Scholarship Program students highlights the strong commitment to youth development and educational partnership. His presence affirms the scholars’ potential and inspires them to strive for excellence, leaving a lasting impact,” said Davao City Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Reynante Solitario.

Ewing underscored the broader partnership between the two nations.

“The United States and the Philippines share more than an ironclad Alliance,” he said. “We share a deep and enduring friendship and a commitment to partnerships that deliver concrete benefits for the American people while strengthening the bonds between our two nations.”