Lest we forget…

A multi-sectoral crowd gathered at the Clark Veterans Cemetery over the weekend in remembrance of the friendship between Filipinos and Americans and the heroism of war veterans, Philippine scouts, and American servicemen.

Officials from Clark Development Corporation (CDC), the city governments of Angeles and Mabalacat, the United States Embassy, the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC), and members and families of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2485 attended the annual event at Clark Veterans Cemetery.

In her speech, representing CDC president and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera, PMGen. Lina C. Sarmiento (Ret.), CDC’s Vice President for Security Services Group, said that the Clark Veterans Cemetery tells stories of sacrifice and courage.

“We’re reminded that heroism goes beyond borders. In this resting place, liberty connects us all. Known and unknown heroes here show us the essence of sacrifice and unity. Let’s reflect on this sacred ground, where history echoes with remembrance,” Sarmiento said.

Interments at the cemetery date back to the Philippine-American War (1899–1902), with varying historical sources on the earliest burials. The construction of the Manila American Cemetery in 1948 prompted the consolidation of non-World War II dead from four post-cemeteries onto Clark Air Force Base, as per ABMC’s records.

“As we honor those who served, let’s renew our dedication to understanding, cooperation, and peace among nations. In the shadow of these sacred grounds, let’s pledge to carry the torch of freedom forward. May the flags at Clark Cemetery be a beacon of hope, reminding us that united, we stand as guardians of liberty and stewards of a lasting legacy,” Sarmiento said.