(Photo screenshot from PCOO Facebook page)
MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte enjoined the public to draw inspiration from Filipino soldiers who fought during the Korean War in facing present challenges worldwide.
On the 70th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War on June 25, the President honored the over 7,000 Filipino soldiers who were sent to the Korean Peninsula in 1950.
“From the great Battle of Yultong to the Battle of Eerie Hill, Filipinos never faltered in defending freedom and the democratic way of life. Today we honor the Filipinos and soldiers of all nations who fought valiantly in that war,” Duterte said in a taped message.
“There is no other way. We must recognize bravery is not easy to muster. We must remember heroism very seldom seen and we must reaffirm values so sacred, they form the bedrock of our special bilateral ties,” he added.
The Philippines was the first Asian country to send combat troops to the Korean War.
“As the world faces emerging challenges yet, let the memory of those who fell in Korean War inspire us all to rise together jointly in solidarity,” Duterte said.