Security in place for 73rd Leyte Gulf Landings

PALO, Leyte, Oct. 17 -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) regional office here has already mapped out plans and security measures for foreign dignitaries, tourists, war veterans, servicemen, and other visitors attending the 73rd Leyte Gulf Landings on Friday.

PNP-Eastern Visayas regional director, Chief Supt. Gilberto Cruz, said they had discussed security preparations early on, particularly in areas where big events would be held, such as at the Leyte Landing Memorial in Palo, commemorative rites in Tolosa, and at Hill 120 in Dulag town on Wednesday and Thursday, respectively.

“We are prepared for the security requirements of the Leyte Gulf Landings and if needed, there is a ready augmentation force from other PNP units in Eastern Visayas,” Cruz said Tuesday.

Hundreds of PNP personnel will be deployed to identify areas where invited foreign dignitaries will be in attendance, before the commemorative program on Friday.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana will be the guest-of-honor and speaker for the commemoration, themed "Keeping Alive the Valor of the Heroes of World War II”.

Meanwhile, Leyte Governor Leopoldo Dominico Petilla said Tuesday the province leads the yearly commemoration to show the “brave warriors” of the Second World War the people’s gratitude for their courage and bravery and for “laying their lives so freedom can be enjoyed”.

Petilla said he wants the celebration to educate the younger generation about the significance of the annual commemoration, as well as the role of World War II and Filipino veterans in the history of the world.

The sunrise activity will be held at the park, while the sunset ceremony will be led by the veterans’ organizations and their sons and daughters.

The governor added that the provincial government had opted for a low-key celebration this year as it gears up for the 75th diamond commemoration of the Leyte Gulf Landings in 2019.

On Oct. 20, 1944, American forces landed on the Red Beach, led by US Gen. Douglas MacArthur, who two years before vowed, “I shall return!”, as well as former Philippine president Sergio Osmeña and Brig. Gen. Carlos P. Romulo.

The landing at Candhug village, 11 km. from Tacloban City, marked the return of the Commonwealth government to the country after years of exile in the US.

The Allied Forces won the two-month Battle of Leyte that ended on Dec. 31, 1944. A battle was also fought on Ormoc Bay and Camotes Sea in November of that year. (ACR/PNA)