PH Navy commemorates World War II 's Battle of Surigao Strait

The Philippine Navy on Friday commemorated the 75th Anniversary of the Battle of Surigao Strait, a Second World War naval battle in which Allied forces were victorious against the Imperial Japanese Navy.

During the commemoration, a wreath-laying ceremony was held, and the Battle of Surigao Strait memorial site and museum was inaugurated in Punta Bilar.

Present for the ceremonies were Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao commander Commodore Antonio Palces; other Philippine Navy representatives; Surigao provincial government of representatives; foreign dignitaries from Australia, Japan, the United States; as well as several Filipino World War II veterans.

The BRP Conrado Yap (PS-39), the Navy's latest acquisition, meanwhile entertained some 500 visitors, including Surigao City Mayor Ernesto Matubas Jr. and Dinagat Governor Arelene Bag-ao.

The Conrado Yap also held a passing exercise (PASSEX) together with Royal Australian Navy ships HMAS Stewart and HMAS Leuwen on Friday morning as part of a "Show the Flag" mission.

"The Philippine Navy participation shows the continuing commitment in promoting peace and development," the Navy said in a press statement.

"It is one of the PN’s way of expressing patriotic pride that Filipino citizen may look upon in order to promote national peace and order in the community." — Joahna Lei Casilao/DVM, GMA News