Photo credit: (Photo by Nikka B. Arenal)
In a powerful display of remembrance and gratitude, the Philippine Consulate General in New York honored Filipino and American World War II veterans with the prestigious U.S. Congressional Gold Medal. The event, held on April 11, 2025, coincided with Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) and the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of Manila. It marked a historic moment of recognition for the sacrifices made by Filipino soldiers during World War II—many of whom had long been forgotten by history.
The solemn tribute included a lecture, ceremonial medal presentation, and musical performances, all of which emphasized the enduring heroism of these brave individuals. This long-overdue acknowledgment underscores the growing global awareness of the Philippines’ role in World War II and the profound legacy left by its veterans.
The Significance of the Congressional Gold Medal
The U.S. Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian honors in the United States. It is awarded to individuals or groups whose achievements have had a lasting impact on American history and culture. For Filipino World War II veterans, receiving this medal is a testament to decades of loyalty, bravery, and sacrifice.
Filipino soldiers served under the U.S. flag during the war, fighting alongside American troops in defense of freedom and democracy in the Pacific. Despite their courage and contributions, recognition from the U.S. government was delayed for decades—until the passing of the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2016.
Araw ng Kagitingan and the Liberation of Manila: A Fitting Backdrop
The ceremony was held during the joint commemoration of Araw ng Kagitingan and the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of Manila. Araw ng Kagitingan, or Day of Valor, is a national observance in the Philippines commemorating the fall of Bataan in 1942 and the resilience of Filipino and American soldiers during the infamous Death March.
The Liberation of Manila in 1945 was one of the bloodiest urban battles in the Pacific theater. Filipino and American forces endured unimaginable hardship to free the capital from Japanese occupation, resulting in the restoration of democracy—but at a staggering human cost.
Highlighting the Heroes: Medal Awardees
Four veterans or their surviving families were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal during the event. Among them:
Petty Officer Arthur Grabiner, a 99-year-old U.S. Navy veteran who served aboard the USS Laurens, received the medal in person.
Posthumous awards were given to Captain Teodoro P. Lomuntad, Private Herbert M. Morgan, and Sergeant Abundio G. Gultiano, with their medals accepted by next of kin.
These individuals represent the thousands of Filipino soldiers who risked and gave their lives during World War II. Their recognition stands as a symbolic gesture of justice and closure.
FilVetREP: The Voice Behind the Recognition
Mr. Sonny Busa, Director of the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project (FilVetREP), played a central role in the ceremony. His remarks honored not just the veterans but the tireless efforts of advocates who campaigned for years to ensure these heroes received due recognition.
“Many Americans still don’t realize that the Philippines took part in the war,” Busa stated. “Filipinos fought side by side with American soldiers. Their stories need to be told—and remembered.”
FilVetREP was instrumental in securing the passage of the Congressional Gold Medal Act. Their advocacy campaign involved legislative lobbying, public outreach, and coordination with Filipino communities across the U.S.
A Lecture in Legacy: ‘Lessons from Liberation’
Author Brett Moyer delivered a moving lecture titled “Lessons from Liberation: WWII and Beyond.” He reflected on the Philippines’ wartime alliance with the United States, the courage of Filipino nurses under fire, and the critical contributions of resistance fighters who helped reclaim Manila from enemy forces.
Moyer emphasized the importance of remembering these stories, not just for history’s sake, but as inspiration for future generations. His presentation offered a poignant educational component to the ceremony.
Musical Tributes Stir Emotional Resonance
The evening closed with powerful musical performances by Filipino-American artists Evita Cruz and Ligaya Cullo. Their renditions of classic patriotic songs like “Bayan Ko” and “Dahil Sa ‘Yo” brought the audience to its feet, serving as heartfelt tributes to the courage, sacrifice, and patriotism of World War II veterans.
The music added emotional depth to the ceremony, capturing the soul of a generation that endured war and fought for a better world.
The Long Road to Recognition
For decades, Filipino World War II veterans had been excluded from many benefits and honors granted to their American counterparts. Despite promises made during wartime, full recognition came slowly and only after sustained advocacy.
The Congressional Gold Medal not only honors their military service but also acknowledges the injustice of their long-overdue recognition. It reaffirms their place in the shared history of two allied nations.
Why This Recognition Matters Today
Honoring Filipino WWII veterans has broader implications for:
Historical justice: Correcting decades of exclusion from public memory
Cultural identity: Reinforcing pride among Filipino-Americans and youth
U.S.-Philippine relations: Strengthening diplomatic and historical ties
As the last surviving veterans grow older, time is running out to honor them while they are still with us. This ceremony sends a message that their service will never be forgotten.
Public and Diplomatic Reactions
Permanent Representative Antonio Manuel R. Lagdameo and Colonel Ralph Hibionada of the Philippine Mission to the United Nations joined Consul General Senen T. Mangalile in presenting the medals. Their presence underscored the Philippine government’s deep commitment to preserving the legacy of its World War II heroes.
Community members, historians, and veterans’ families in attendance expressed gratitude and emotion, sharing stories of relatives who fought or died in the war. The event became a powerful gathering of remembrance and solidarity.
Next Steps in Honoring Filipino Veterans
Advocates hope to see:
Expansion of the Congressional Gold Medal program to reach more families
Greater integration of Filipino WWII history in school curricula
Preservation of oral histories from remaining veterans
Ongoing support for veterans’ health, legal, and welfare needs
These actions ensure that future generations understand and honor the legacy of Filipino soldiers.
Conclusion
The awarding of the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal to Filipino World War II veterans is a historic milestone—an acknowledgment of heroism that transcends borders, generations, and political eras. Through the collective effort of advocates, diplomats, artists, and communities, these forgotten heroes have finally taken their place in the annals of history.
As the Philippine Consulate in New York led this moving tribute, it reminded the world of a simple truth: courage has no expiration date. The medals may shine with gold, but the stories behind them shine even brighter—with sacrifice, honor, and undying patriotism.
