In a heartfelt tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of World War II veterans from Pangasinan, the provincial government and the Department of National Defense (DND) have rolled out a series of initiatives aimed at honoring these heroes. The commemorative event, held on January 9, 2025, at the Capitol Grounds in Lingayen town, saw the presence of Pangasinan Governor Ramon Guico III and DND Undersecretary Pablo Lorenzo, alongside surviving veterans.
Undersecretary Lorenzo, representing Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., emphasized the government’s dedication to improving healthcare access for veterans. He announced the development of the Veterans Medical Service, which aims to enhance medical care and hospitalization options through partnerships with hospitals across the nation, following directives from President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. While awaiting the approval of the service’s charter, the Veterans Memorial Medical Center in Quezon City continues to serve veterans and their families.
Lorenzo also revealed plans for 24 veterans wards in various government hospitals, with five already operational, including one at the Region 1 Medical Center in Dagupan City. This ward is named in honor of Lieutenant Colonel Jaime M. Arsadon, a key figure in the Army of the Agno, a guerrilla group pivotal in liberating Pangasinan during the war.
Governor Guico III highlighted the ongoing rehabilitation of the Veterans Memorial Plaza within the Capitol Complex project. The plaza, designed to commemorate the fallen Pangasinense WWII veterans, will include a reflective pool, an interactive fountain, and monuments dedicated to the veterans’ sacrifices. Guico expressed his hope that the project would serve as a perpetual reminder of the significant historical events at the Lingayen Gulf during the war.
The event was attended by 10 out of the 25 living Pangasinan WWII veterans, marking a poignant moment of recognition and gratitude for their service.