War veteran had God on his side during World War II service

In a short interview with reporters, 99 year-old World War II veteran Cipriano Florendo says he thanks the Lord for not forsaking him during his service (Luisa Cabato / INQUIRER.net)

BATAAN, Philippines — As the nation commemorated Araw ng Kagitingan or Day of Valor on Wednesday, a 99 year-old war veteran expressed gratitude to God for not forsaking him during his service in World War II. “Malaking pinapasalamatan natin ay ang ating Panginoon,” said Cipriano Florendo of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines—Morong Post, Bataan Chapter, when asked what kept him going when he fought for the country. (One of the most incredible things we are thankful for is our Lord.) “‘Yun po ang ating hindi malilimutan, ating panginoon,” he added.   (He’s something we will never forget—our Lord.)

Florendo joined the war effort when he was just 19 years old.

READ: ‘Solution to war is not more war,’ Marcos says in Day of Valor speech

Florendo was among the veterans honored during the 83rd anniversary of the Day of Valor held at the Mount Samat National Shrine in Pilar, Bataan.

With the theme “Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Bagong Pilipinas,” President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and other government officials gathered to pay tribute to Filipino and American soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War II, particularly during the Fall of Bataan and the Resistance in Corregidor.

Florendo led the ceremonial tolling of the bell in honor of all veterans during the program. 

Cipriano Florendo of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines—Morong Post, Bataan Chapter leads the ceremonial tolling of the bell in honor of  veterans during the 83rd anniversary of the Day of Valor held at the Mount Samat National Shrine in Pilar, Bataan. (Photo: Screengrab from RTVM)

In his Day of Valor message earlier in the day, Marcos reminded Filipinos that valor is not just about “strength and resolve in the face of adversity” but a quality that can also be shown through little acts of kindness that positively affect people.

READ: Valor may be shown through little acts of kindness, says Marcos

“In honoring our forebears, may we recognize that valor is not solely about strength and resolve in the face of adversity but also about small acts of compassion, generosity, and kindness that create meaningful ripples of positive change in our communities,” he said in his message posted on his social media accounts.

“Indeed, this year’s commemoration shows that our country is a cradle of heroes and heroines—a home of noble men and women who, regardless of risk or cost, willingly gave a part of themselves and even their lives for the sake of their beloved nation,” Marcos added.