TACLOBAN CITY — The provincial government of Leyte has intensified preparations for the upcoming 82nd Leyte Gulf Landings commemoration, bringing together working committees to finalize logistical planning and honor the region's remaining World War II heroes.
Key Committees Finalize Multi-Town Commemoration Logistics
Executive and technical panels convened at Camp Bryztoff in Dulag, Leyte, to coordinate responsibilities across participating coastal municipalities:
Multi-Venue Coordination: While the main commemorative program on October 20 will take place in Palo, dedicated ceremonies and historical activities are scheduled in the municipalities of Dulag and Tolosa.
Official Branding and Themes: Executive Group Chairperson Frances Ann B. Petilla reviewed proposed logo concepts and themes to ensure a unified identity for this year's anniversary events.
International Diplomatic Presence: Leyte Tourism Investment and Promotion Center Head Jesyn Ramos confirmed that formal invitations were dispatched to Malacañang alongside diplomatic representatives from the United States, Japan, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.
Honoring Eastern Visayas’ Last Living World War II Witnesses
Organizers emphasized that honoring the dwindling number of living veterans remains the core priority of the annual commemoration:
Tribute to Dwindling Heroes: Technical Working Group Chairperson Antonio "Toto" Cinco urged committees to direct all honors toward the surviving veterans as they approach their centenary years, with the oldest living veteran currently 102 years old.
Regional Veteran Count: Only 10 World War II veterans remain alive in Eastern Visayas—five residing in Leyte, two in Eastern Samar, and one each in Ormoc City, Southern Leyte, and Samar.
