Forty-eight World War II veterans from Bulacan were honored with the United States Congressional Gold Medal, one of America’s highest civilian awards, during the commemoration of the 82nd Anniversary of the Bulacan Military Area and the 80th Anniversary of the End of World War II in the Philippines.

The recognition is part of the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2015, signed into law by former U.S. President Barack Obama. The law honors the courage and sacrifice of more than 260,000 Filipino veterans who fought under the U.S. flag during the war.

Keith Sekuterski, Assistant Director of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Manila Benefits Office, emphasized that the award symbolizes America’s deepest gratitude.

“This is the highest expression of our nation’s appreciation for the courage, strength, and sacrifice of Filipino veterans who stood as defenders of freedom,” Sekuterski said.

Philippine Defense Undersecretary for Civil, Veterans, and Reserve Affairs Pablo Lorenzo, meanwhile, reminded families and surviving veterans that the medal represents more than recognition.

“You are a living inspiration of life and sacrifice,” Lorenzo said.

Before the Congressional Gold Medal Act, the U.S. government approved a one-time compensation for eligible Filipino veterans under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The payments sought to address decades-long grievances stemming from the U.S. Rescission Act of 1946, which had revoked many promised benefits for Filipino veterans.

Among those honored was 101-year-old Remedios Roque, the oldest surviving Bulacan veteran, who received her medal during the ceremony.

The recognition stands as both a tribute to the bravery of Bulakenyo veterans and a reminder of the long struggle for justice and acknowledgment of their heroism.