BALANGA City, Bataan: A 104-year old World War II veteran was among those honored by the provincial government of Bataan during the Parangal sa mga Beterano at Tanghal ng Kagitingan held Tuesday at the Bataan People’s Center here.
The activity was part of the province’s commemoration of the 84th Araw ng Kagitingan that culminates on April 9 with a program to be graced by Pres. Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos at historic Mount Samat in Pilar, Bataan.
Onofre Bugay of Barangay Sta. Lucia, Samal, Bataan was born on September 12, 1922 and still healthy except being short in hearing and needed to be guided in walking.
Bugay, a farmer and former tricycle driver after his WW2 stint, has eight children and 25 grandchildren.
The Provincial Information Office reported that Bugay was among 13 living WW2 veterans in Bataan who were honored. Also in attendance at the “parangal” were surviving spouses and families of WW2 veterans.
National Historical Commission of the Philippines Director Carminda Arevalo, Gov. Jose Enrique Garcia III and Cong. Albert Garcia all paid tribute to the heroism and sacrifices of the veterans.
The affair at the giant Bataan People’s Center also featured stage players from 10 municipalities and one city who showcased selected portions of important events in the country’s history. (30)
