BY TIMOTHY JOHN REMORCA
SOLANO, Nueva Vizcaya (August 18, 2023)—In a poignant ceremony marked by reverence and gratitude, the Northern Valor initiative reached a historic milestone as the Certificate of Title was awarded to the family of World War II hero and veteran Joseph P. Zuraek.
The ceremony, held at the newly established “Libingan ng mga Bayani” in Nueva Vizcaya, a First to be established by a Provincial LGU in the Philippines, marked not only a momentous occasion for the province but also a significant step towards recognizing the gallantry and valor of those who fought for freedom during the war.
The visionary initiative, known as Northern Valor, was driven by the collective determination of the Provincial Local Government Unit of Nueva Vizcaya, the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office – Field Service Extension Office Bayombong, Veterans Federation of the Filippines – Nueva Vizcaya District, NV AFP Veterans Association and the Heritage Memorial Park in Solano, Nueva Vizcaya. The initiative echoes sentiments of gratitude and recognition for the bravery exhibited by the 11 surviving World War II heroes from the province. Spearheaded by Board Member Patricio F. Dumlao, Jr., and Board Member Primo Percival J. Marcos, the initiative gained traction with the support of the Honorable Atty. Jose V. Gambito, the Governor of the Province.
The awarding of the Certificate of Title to Joseph P. Zuraek’s family is a pivotal moment that symbolizes the deep respect Nueva Vizcaya holds for its wartime heroes. Joseph P. Zuraek’s remarkable contribution to the war effort and his unwavering bravery in the face of adversity have etched his name in history. The Libingan ng mga Bayani in Nueva Vizcaya stands as a testament to the sacrifices made by individuals like Zuraek and countless others who fought for the country’s freedom.
“This is a milestone for Nueva Vizcaya,” declared Hon. Patricio F. Dumlao, Jr. during the ceremony.
Our province proudly claims the title of being the first in the country to establish a dedicated Libingan ng mga Bayani that is formally recognized by the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office. This endeavor serves as a beacon of gratitude, uniting us in our acknowledgment of the debt we owe to those who secured our freedom and shaped our future. Without their selfless dedication, the present we cherish would not have been possible.
The event was attended by Judge Merianthe Pacita Manzano Zuraek and Cleanthe Zuraek – Buendia, the daughters of WWII Hero Joseph P. Zuraek, PVAO HRDD Chief, Mariciel E. Estacio, MNSA, who delivered the message of PVAO Administrator, Usec. Reynaldo B. Mapagu, PVAO Management Information Division Chief, Ms. Katherine T. Arrojo, MDM, PVAO-FSEO Nueva Vizcaya Head, Ms. Marilen A. Tolentino, Veterans Federation of the Philippines, Region II President, Col. Reynaldo M. Lingan (Ret) representing the VFP National President, Maj. General Romeo D. Alamillo, AFP (Ret), NV AFP Veterans Association President, Col. Marcelino B. Tacadena, Jr. GSC PA (Ret) local officials, dignitaries and members of the community. The emotional ceremony paid homage to Pvt. Zuraek’s legacy highlights his selfless dedication to the nation and the values he upheld during a tumultuous period in history.
As the nation moves forward, the Northern Valor initiative serves as a beacon of remembrance, inspiring current and future generations to appreciate the sacrifices made for the freedom and sovereignty of the Philippines. The Libingan ng mga Bayani in Nueva Vizcaya stands not only as a physical monument but as a living testament to the valor and heroism of those who have shaped the nation’s destiny.
The ceremonial awarding of the Certificate of Title to Joseph P. Zuraek’s family is a poignant reminder that the sacrifices of the past continue to resonate in the present, fostering a sense of unity, pride, and reverence within the community of Nueva Vizcaya.