Marcos signs law declaring April as Philippine Veterans' Month

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has enacted a measure declaring April of each year as Philippine Veterans’ Month in honor of the heroism, sacrifices, and the enduring contributions of Filipino veterans.

According to a Facebook post of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), Marcos signed Republic Act 12320 or the “Philippine Veterans’ Month Act” on May 26.

The new law institutionalized the month-long national observance to recognize and commemorate Filipino veterans and “ensure that their legacy is preserved for future generations,” the PVAO said.

“It provides a platform for educating the public, particularly the youth, on the vital role veterans played in the country’s history while promoting greater awareness of their welfare, benefits, and continuing contributions to nation-building,” it added.

RA 12320 urged national government agencies (NGAs), local government units (LGUs), state universities and colleges (SUCs), and other stakeholders to undertake coordinated commemorative and service-oriented activities throughout April.

These may include media and digital content production, educational initiatives, volunteer and youth engagement programs, improved delivery of veterans’ benefits and services, recognition and awards programs, and health and wellness activities for veterans and their families.

The PVAO, in coordination with the Department of National Defense (DND), was designated as one of the lead institutions in implementing Philippine Veterans’ Month.

The country also observes the Araw ng Kagitingan or Day of Valor on April 9, a regular holiday to commemorate the bravery of Filipino and American soldiers who defended the Philippines during World War II. — JMA, GMA News