The Negros Occidental provincial government yesterday celebrated the 73rd Negros Island Victory Day, which commemorates the day Japanese soldiers surrendered to combined Negrense forces in Murcia on September 9, 1945.

The observance was marked with a wreath-laying at the War Veterans Monument, located in Capitol Park; along with a program at the Negros Occidental Multi-Purpose Activity Center in Bacolod City.

Among those present included Negros Occidental Provincial Board Member Valentino Miguel Alonso; Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office director, Police Senior Superintendent Rodolfo Castil, Jr.; Lt. Colonel Emelito Thaddeus Logan of the Philippine Army 79th Infantry Battalion; Roque Hofileña of the Negros Occidental Historical Council; among others.

In 1995, then-President Fidel V. Ramos signed Administrative Order No. 215, which marked the 50th anniversary Victory Day in Negros.

According to the order, “This event should be appropriately observed to promote, preserve, and memorialize the principles, ideals, and deeds of Filipino military veterans as a means of enhancing patriotism and love of country, especially among the youth of the land.”

Alonso, who appeared on behalf of Negros Occidental Governor Alfredo Marañon, Jr., said, “Patriotism is expressed in many different ways, and it doesn’t necessarily mean going through a battle and losing one’s life to express the love for country.”

“Taking part in nation-building is already an expression of love for country,” he explained.