GUINDULMAN, Bohol – Hundreds gathered in Barangay Cabantian, Guindulman, on Feb. 18 to commemorate the 81st anniversary of the Battle of Cabantian, a pivotal World War II engagement.
The Philippine Veterans Affairs Office-Bohol, led by Mario Blasabas, and the Guindulman Local Government Unit, headed by Mayor Albino Balo, organized the simple commemorative program.
Retired Army General Joseph Sevilla, President of the Bohol Dagohoy Veterans and Sons and Daughters Associations, served as guest of honor and speaker.
The event began with a Holy Mass, followed by flag raising, wreath-laying rites, commemorative messages, and a 21-gun salute by the Guindulman Municipal Police Station.
In his address, General Sevilla cited the significance of the 1944 Battle of Cabantian, describing it as one of the most fierce and successful engagements against Japanese forces in Bohol.
He recounted the bravery of Major Esteban Bernido, a local Lumad leader who led the guerilla forces against the Japanese in Barangay Cabantian.
The guerillas inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy, forcing them to retreat.
Sevilla noted the Japanese retaliation, which included widespread killings, torture, and the burning of the entire poblacion of Guindulman and Duero, sparing only the church and convent, which they used as a garrison.
He lauded the courage of the guerilla fighters and the unwavering support of the Boholano people during the war.
The commemoration served as a reminder of the crucial role veterans played in securing the nation’s freedom and sovereignty.
Sevilla expressed hope that the lessons, courage, and unwavering patriotism displayed by the veterans will continue to inspire future generations, ensuring that the memory of their sacrifices is never forgotten.