Panay marks 81st Liberation Day
Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas (center) joins veterans, military officials, and representatives of various agencies during the Panay Liberation Day commemoration at the Balantang Memorial Cemetery National Shrine in Iloilo City on March 18, 2026. (Photo courtesy of Iloilo City Government)
ILOILO CITY — Officials, veterans, and descendants of World War II freedom fighters gathered on Wednesday at the Balantang Memorial Cemetery National Shrine to commemorate the 81st anniversary of the liberation of Panay, Guimaras, and Romblon from Japanese forces.
The event, which coincided with a local holiday, drew representatives from the Iloilo City local government, led by Mayor Raisa Treñas, members of the Iloilo City Police Office, provincial government officials, post-war veterans, reservists, and leaders of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines.
Participants offered floral tributes at key memorial sites within the shrine, including the Peralta Resting Place, the Wall of Memories, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the 6th Military District Pylon.
The ceremony concluded with a volley of fire and the playing of “Taps,” honoring the courage and sacrifice of those who fought during World War II.
March 18 commemorates the historic liberation of Panay, Guimaras, and Romblon in 1945 when Filipino guerrilla fighters, known as the Free Panay Guerrilla Forces and led by Col. Macario Peralta Jr., launched a decisive offensive against Japanese troops.
The assault coincided with the arrival of American liberation forces at Tigbauan Beach under Lt. Gen. Robert L. Eichelberger of the Eighth United States Army, marking a turning point in the campaign to reclaim Western Visayas.
Through Presidential Proclamation No. 420 issued in 1989, March 18 is officially observed as Victory Day in Panay and Romblon, including Iloilo City and Roxas City.
The annual commemoration serves as a tribute to both the organized resistance fighters and the civilians who supported the liberation movement, whose sacrifices helped restore freedom in the region during the final months of the war. /gsg
