City gov’t honors veterans on the 81st Araw ng Koronadal
The City of Koronadal commemorated the 81st Araw ng Kagitingan guided with the theme, “Kagitingan ng mga Beterano, Pundasyon ng Nagkakaisang Pilipino,” on Monday, April 10, 2023 in Rizal Park, this city.
This year’s Araw ng Kagitingan aims to honor the veterans whose bravery and sacrifices laid the groundwork for the country’s freedom. Their stories of heroism and collaboration remind every Filipino of the importance of solidarity and unity in nation-building.
“Let us honor our heroes by living up to their legacy of courage, bravery, and selflessness. Let us stand together in unity, and continue to build a stronger and more prosperous community,” City Mayor Eliordo U. Ogena expressed his heartfelt appreciation to all soldiers who fought for the country’s freedom.
Mayor Ogena then commends the men and women who continue to serve the country with bravery, dedication, and selflessness. He praised the modern-day heroes who have chosen to serve their country and fellow Filipinos.
In addition to the commemorative event, Major Bienvenido V. Fajemolin was awarded the ‘Medal of Valor’ for his extraordinary bravery in the face of a heavy rebel attack on October 18, 1977 in Kawit-Kawit, Sibuco, Zamboanga del Norte.
“Bilang awardee, nakipaglaban ako sa iba’t-ibang lugar, but it is a miracle and a million thanks to the Lord for saving my life- nothing is impossible in prayer. Let us remember our great fallen soldiers, as we recall their bravery in defending our country to secure the future generations life,” Fajemolin said following the acceptance of the medal of valor.
Fajemolin was serving as platoon sergeant of 3rd Platoon, Charlie Company, 36th Infantry Battalion, 4th Infantry Division Philippine Army in the said place when his company headquarters was attacked by approximately 500 insurgents, with his officials on official business, then Private First Class Fajemolin assumed command of the whole company and defended their position until the attackers withdrew.
In addition to his speech, “Palagi nating isaisip na sa ating paninilbihan wala dapat tayong hinihintay na anumang kapalit, sapagkat ang taong bayan lamang ang nagbibigay kahulugan kung ano ang ating nagawa para sa bayan.” he said.
Major Fajemolin thanked the government, led by City Mayor Ogena, for carrying out the effort and emphasizing the importance of veterans.
Bienvenido Fajemolin is a retired Philippine Army enlisted trooper and a recipient the Philippines’ highest military award for courage, the Medal of Valor.
Following the ceremony, a 21-gun salute was fired to commemorate the occasion.
Aside from the personal attendance of Mayor Ogena and Sangguniang Panlungsod members led by City Vice Mayor Erlinda Araquil, Veterans Federation of the Philippines- Koronadal Post, Veterans Survivors Department Heads, Barangay Captains, Men in Uniform and many others, are also present in the said occasion.