BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — On the 81st anniversary of the city’s liberation from Japanese occupation, descendants of World War II veterans gathered at the Baguio Veterans Park to honor the bravery of those who fought for the summer capital’s freedom. During the commemoration on Monday, April 27, 2026, families were reminded that the torch of liberty must be carried forward by the younger generation through the preservation of their ancestors’ stories.
The event spotlighted the “Mighty 66th”—the Igorot Infantry that played a pivotal role in the resistance against the Imperial Japanese Army in Northern Luzon.
Adriano Carantes Jr., former vice mayor of Itogon and son of Sergeant Adriano Fianza Carantes Sr., delivered a moving tribute to the 66th Infantry Division.
- Heroism at 16: Carantes Sr. was the youngest recruit of the 11th Infantry Guerrilla Unit at just 16 years old. He notably helped neutralize a Japanese machine gun unit that had blocked access to Baguio.
- Nowhere yet Everywhere: Carantes Jr. emphasized the unit’s motto, noting that while the veterans are no longer here, their legacy should be felt everywhere in the daily lives of their grandchildren.
- The Call to Action: “May we always remember that freedom is not only inherited, it is honored and protected,” Carantes Jr. said, urging the youth to bring the meaning of liberation into their everyday actions.
The ceremony was graced by Ernesto Luis, 99, the last surviving member of the “Mighty 66” and a veteran of the Korean War.
- Modern Connection: Despite his age, Luis was seen enthusiastically taking selfies with local scouts, bridging the gap between the heroes of the 1940s and the digital generation of 2026.
- Standing Tall: Luis expressed his happiness at surviving to represent his fallen comrades, stating he hopes to spend the rest of his life “standing tall” for the veteran community.
Baguio City holds a unique place in World War II history:
- The Beginning: Camp John Hay was among the first Philippine sites bombed by Japanese planes on December 8, 1941.
- The Resistance: The rugged terrain of the Cordilleras became the stronghold for the 66th Infantry, which conducted guerrilla operations to weaken Japanese defenses before Allied forces returned.
- The End: It was at the former John Hay Air Station where Japanese General Tomoyuki Yamashita formally surrendered, marking the end of the war in the Pacific.
The commemoration served as a stark reminder that as the number of living witnesses to the war dwindles, the responsibility of history falls to their descendants. The names etched on the memorial wall at Veterans Park are not just historical data, but family members whose sacrifices allow for the peace enjoyed today.