AFP honors personnel as modern day heroes fighting COVID-19

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) honored its personnel as "modern day heroes" fighting an unconventional enemy during the 78th anniversary of Araw ng Kagitingan amidst the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine.

AFP Chief of Staff General Felimon Santos Jr. urged soldiers to emulate the heroism, patriotism, and selflessness of past generations in the face of modern challenges.

Santos, who recovered from COVID-19, emphasized that the military continues to draw strength from the sacrifices of veterans to maintain peace and security.

He stated that the AFP remains resolute in fighting on all fronts, including the current pandemic, communist insurgents, terrorists, and other threats to the state.

The AFP is actively involved in enforcing anti-COVID-19 measures and collaborating with organizations to provide relief to communities affected by the quarantine.

Araw ng Kagitingan commemorates the historic defense of Bataan against Japanese forces during World War II, which also led to the infamous Death March of captured soldiers.

The holiday was originally declared as Bataan Day in 1961 and later renamed Araw ng Kagitingan in 1987.