Baguio City, Philippines — On September 3, U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson and Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong led a solemn ceremony at the U.S. Ambassador’s Residence in Camp John Hay to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory Day, commemorating the end of World War II in the Philippines.
The event honored the shared sacrifices of Filipino and Allied forces during the war and celebrated the enduring partnership between the United States and the Philippines. Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro Jr. served as guest of honor at the ceremony, which was attended by more than 300 guests, including veterans, diplomats, military officials, and representatives from both public and private sectors.
Victory Day commemorates the official surrender of Japanese forces in the Philippines and the restoration of peace after years of conflict. It holds particular significance for Baguio City, where General Tomoyuki Yamashita formally surrendered in 1945.
In her keynote address, Ambassador Carlson paid tribute to the courage and resilience demonstrated by both nations during the war.
“The liberation of the Philippines during World War II was a triumph of extraordinary bravery and the indomitable spirit of the Filipino people,” she said. “From resistance movements that defied occupation to countless sacrifices made, their legacy is the freedom we cherish today. This shared struggle forged a special relationship between our two nations—one built on mutual respect, trust, and a commitment to the safety and prosperity of future generations.”
Mayor Magalong echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the deep local connection to the historic events of 1945.
“That surrender marked not only the end of World War II in the Philippines but also the triumph of courage, spirit, and hope over tyranny and despair,” he said. “For us in Baguio, this is more than just an event recorded in history books—it is part of our city’s living memory and identity.”
Secretary Teodoro delivered a message of reflection and resolve, reminding attendees of the enduring lessons of history.
“Today must not merely be an ordinary memorial day. It must be a day of deep reflection,” he stated. “If we do not learn from the past and act with unity, purpose, and discipline, then we do a disservice to those who shed their blood for our freedom.”
Distinguished attendees included Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr., National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) Chairperson Regalado Trota Jose Jr., and Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) Undersecretary Reynaldo Mapagu.
A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of commemorative coins to living World War II veterans Angelo Viloria Andrada, Ernesto Carreon Luis, Florence Rimando Marasigan, and Sixta Quiñones Favila, in recognition of their courage and contributions to freedom and democracy. Veteran Ernesto Luis led the ceremonial ringing of a bell at precisely 12:10 p.m.—the exact time of General Yamashita’s surrender. Churches across Baguio City also rang their bells in unison.
During the event, Ambassador Carlson announced the launch of a virtual tour of the historic U.S. Ambassador’s Residence, developed by the U.S. Department of State. The tour is publicly accessible via the OBO VR app or through the following link: https://hullfilm360.com/projects/state/baguio/web/360tour/index.html.
“This initiative preserves our shared heritage and invites future generations to reflect on the past while helping to build a hopeful tomorrow,” Carlson said.
Following the ceremony, Ambassador Carlson hosted a reception celebrating U.S.-Philippine friendship and the 249th anniversary of U.S. independence.
“As we look toward the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence and the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine diplomatic relations in 2026, we are reminded that our alliance is grounded in shared values—life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” the Ambassador remarked.
