“I reiterate that today is not just a day. It is a day to remember, reflect and be the influence of the values exemplified by our heroes. It is imperative that we become more open of things that have transpired in the past to be able to learn from the best that others have done. The highest levels that others have reached can give us invaluable pointers in refining our attitudinal preferences. We should not shirk from facing the truth, no matter how much it hurts. For as long as we do so, we can move forward to initiate reforms, create positive changes, become more decisive and effect definite improvement," he added.

The celebration with the theme, “Kagitingan ng mga Beterano, Pundasyon ng Nagkakaisang Filipino” started with an invocation led by Father Marcial Lloyd Castañeda. 

It was followed by   a wreath laying ceremony led the Veterans Federation of the Philippines - Mountain Province Chapter headed by Paulo Pagteilan, the Congressman, Angel Baybay representing Governor Bonifacio C. Lacwasan, Jr., and Bontoc Mayor Jerome Tudlong, Jr.

Flowers were also offered at the Veterans' Memorial .by the veterans, spouses of dead veterans, and guests.  

According to Pagteilan, there are only two World War II living veterans in the province - Vet Tangkawan Fangsusot of Betwagan who is now 102 years old and Vet.  Gaspar Domimguez of Banaao Tadian, now 99. Vet Wanason of Paracelis died just last March at the age of 104.