ABOUT 1,000 PNP personnel will be deployed for the commemoration of the 77th Araw ng Kagitingan on Tuesday, April 9, and observance of the Philippine Veterans Week.

This year’s celebration carries the theme “Sakripisyo ng Beterano ay Gunitain, Gawing Tanglaw ng Kabataan Tungo sa Kaunlaran” to signify the heroism and great contribution of Filipino veterans in achieving freedom and independence for the country.

Central Luzon Police Regional Office Director Joel Napoleon M. Coronel said that all roads leading to the Dambana ng Kagitingan in Pilar, Bataan will be secured and manned by PNP personnel.

On April 9, 1942, approximately 75,000 Filipino and American soldiers stationed in Corregidor and Bataan formally surrendered to the Japanese army under Lt. General Masaharu Homma. The prisoners of war were transferred to Camp O’ Donnell, Capas, Tarlac in what would infamously be known as the “Bataan Death March."

The Dambana ng Kagitingan was built on top of Mount Samat in 1966 in memory of those soldiers.

The shrine’s most distinct feature is a 92-meter Memorial Cross which is made of marble, steel, and concrete. At the base of the cross is a sculptural base relief that depicts important historical events and battles in the Philippines. (PR)