From suffering to death: Why does the Day of Valor still matter today?

Wounded. Weeping. Dying.

Starving, sick, and broken, the soldiers were little more than shattered vessels, dragged through a merciless 140-kilometer march that scorched not just their bodies but their very souls. 

Heat, hunger, and death pursued them relentlessly, leaving a trail of fallen comrades in their wake. Yet, amid the chaos and brutality, a fragile thread of nationalism held their spirits aloft. Each step forward became a testament to their unwavering will to endure, even as many fell, their bodies succumbing to the relentless Bataan march.

The blood that was spilled may have long since dried, its stains faded in the sands of time. But the lessons and sacrifices should never be forgotten. 

Yet, it seems that as time moves forward, the echoes of those who suffered and died fade into the background of history, drowned out by the distractions of a more comfortable world.

The past calls to us, not with anger or blame, but with a quiet plea — remember.

Occurred on the dawn of April 9, 1942, over 70,000 thousand Filipino, Chinese, and American  soldiers were forced to surrender during the Japanese occupation in the Philippines. Ordered by US Army commander Major General Edward P. King, their defense of the Bataan peninsula from Japanese troops marked their end which encountered the historical suffering among these soldiers. 

Beneath the blazing sun and the constant echo of gunfire, the surrendered soldiers were forced to march from Bagac, Bataan, to San Fernando, and finally to Camp O'Donnell in Tarlac.Throughout the 90-mile (about 90 to 140 kilometer) inhuman march, these soldiers suffered from torture, disease, exhaustion, starvation, dehydration, and even death from gunshots or bayonet wounds along the way.

History would later call this event as Bataan Death March, which symbolizes heroism from the sufferings that killed the eagerness to defend the country from foreign invasion. To make Filipinos remember, Republic Act 3022 was enacted to proclaim April 9th as ‘Bataan Day’ until Letter of Instruction 1087 made this as a national public holiday, and renamed as ‘Araw ng Kagitingan’ or ‘Day of Valor’ through Executive Order 203.

A day of remembrance and respect

Araw ng Kagitingan is a time to honor the heroes who fought in one of the most crucial chapters of the country's history. It’s not just a holiday marked on a calendar, but a solemn reminder of the courage, resilience, and hope that continues to define the Filipino spirit. It commemorates the Battle of Bataan in 1942, when Filipino and American soldiers made their last stand against overwhelming Japanese forces. Though the battle ended in surrender and thousands were taken as prisoners of war, their bravery is far from forgotten.

“We never celebrate the Fall of Bataan. We commemorate the Fall of Bataan. We remember,” said historian Jose Ricardo, emphasizing that the soldiers back then were not just fighting to survive, but for a better future — one where the Philippines could stand independently and free — like how it is today. Though it was considered as a military loss, it had far-reaching effects. The fierce resistance of the Filipino and American troops delayed the Japanese forces long enough to give the allies critical time to regroup and plan their next steps, a turning point in the Pacific War, ultimately contributing to Japan’s defeat. 

“It (Bataan) was a light for the whole world to look at and then [when it fell], never ever let that be forgotten. The fact that it stayed that long was already a victory by itself,” Jose added.

But beyond the battlefield, the bravery of the defenders of Bataan became a symbol of resilience.

Their actions taught the world that even in the most dire circumstances, Filipinos stood strong, united, and determined. The courage shown at Bataan became a wellspring of inspiration for the Philippines’ eventual liberation, and continues to motivate Filipinos today. 

Whether in the face of personal struggles or national challenges, the fall of Bataan reminds us to stand firm, to hold on to hope, and to support one another in order to rise together.

Each year, Filipinos and local communities come together at war memorials and national shrines to honor the fallen heroes who fought for the country’s freedom. 

These gatherings are a chance to remember the bravery and sacrifices made in battle, with places like Mount Samat, Capas, and Corregidor Island serving as enduring symbols of that history. These shrines allow people to connect with their past, reflecting on both the tragedies and heroism that shaped the nation. 

Through solemn military events, wreath-laying ceremonies, and parades, these moments help solidify a shared national identity, reminding everyone of the courage and valor of those who served and the deep gratitude they deserve.

For families of the veterans, the day is not just about history; it’s personal. It’s about honoring fathers, grandfathers, and loved ones who fought to protect our land. For younger generations, it’s a day of learning — of understanding what it means to truly fight for one’s country, and how far-reaching the cost of freedom can be.

Through ceremonies, educational programs, and quiet moments of reflection, this day ensures that the legacy of Bataan is never forgotten. 

The Day of Valor reminds everyone to say, "thank you,” mirrored in their actions — a sign of honor to those who sacrificed everything and to ensure their bravery continues to inspire the values of patriotism, courage, and unity — despite the wounds, weeping, and dying bodies. 

These commemorations breathe life into the nation’s foundations, creating a powerful reminder of the courage and valor that shaped the country. 

They’re not just a moment to look back, but a call to honor the enduring spirit of the Filipino people — one that continues to rise, unbroken, through every challenge. By paying tribute to the heroes who fought, these gatherings ensure that their legacy lives on, inspiring future generations to carry forward the same resilience, pride, and love for the country.