ON FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2024, ORMOC CITY COMMEMORATED the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Ormoc Bay with a solemn event held at the Ormoc City Plaza. The celebration commemorated the bravery and sacrifices of soldiers who participated in the said World War II battle, which was important to the liberation of the Philippines.
In her message, City Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez shared, “Today is a reminder of our strength of character and the result of those who came before us, and we will stand strong to safeguard the welfare of our children, defend our families, and protect all that we hold dear and love.” She also highlighted the values of courage, resilience, and unity displayed during the Battle of Ormoc Bay, saying, “For us to do this, we need all of us to participate in vigilance and the cultivation of peace. All of us, my fellow public servants, educators, fellow Ormocanons, men in uniform, we shall be partners in peace and order to protect what we have today.”
Meanwhile, in his address, Leyte 4th District Representative Richard I. Gomez acknowledged the importance of the Battle of Ormoc Bay, highlighting the bravery of the soldiers who fought fearlessly to secure the country’s independence, saying, “Heroes were made in Ormoc Bay; our modern heroes are all of us here. We try to keep Ormoc City peaceful, progressive, strong, and forward-looking. So we must continue this peace and order campaign in Ormoc City.”
The ceremony was attended by key city officials, members of the local uniformed personnel, and the members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod. Their presence underscored the collective recognition and appreciation for the sacrifices made during the Battle of Ormoc Bay. (By James Gadiano / EV Mail December 16-22, 2024 issue)
