The Office of the Vice President (OVP), in collaboration with the Davao City Government, provided assistance to World War II veterans from Davao City to attend the 80th Anniversary of the Liberation of Manila, which took place last Saturday, 22 February 2025, at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial in Taguig City.

Mr. Florante Mallari and Mr. Teofilo Gamutan were selected as representatives from Davao City. They are the only remaining veterans among the last eight survivors from Davao City who are physically capable of traveling for this significant event. The anniversary commemoration paid tribute to the joint sacrifices of Filipinos and Americans who fought alongside each other during World War II.

Mr. Gamutan, 101, is recognized as the oldest among Davao City’s five remaining war veterans and is a distinguished figure in World War II history. Mr. Mallari, 99, served as a Filipino soldier and Philippine Scout from 1946 to 1949 during the post-World War II unit reorganization.

In acknowledgment of their service and contributions, Mr. Mallari and Mr. Gamutan were awarded the United States Congressional Gold Medal, one of the highest civilian honors bestowed by the U.S. Congress.

The OVP reaffirms its commitment to honoring the sacrifices of Filipino veterans and ensuring they receive the recognition they rightfully deserve for their invaluable contributions to the country’s history.