War veterans in Eastern Visayas hope to receive better specialized health care with the opening of a veterans’ ward at the Eastern Visayas Medical Center (EVMC) in Tacloban City.
The facility, named Captain Nievas Fernandez Veterans Ward, honors a resident of this city who was a teacher-turned-guerrilla and one of the lesser-known heroes of World War II.
It was opened just in time for the commemoration of the Araw ng Kagitingan on April 9, during which the contribution of war veterans, especially those who fought against Japanese invasion during World War II, were honored.
Jose Jacla, regional representative of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines (VFP) Region 8, reiterated the organization's calls for an increase in old age pensions and other benefits, which remain unresolved with lawmakers.
“We continue to fight and lobby for what they deserve as we honor their sacrifices and patriotism,” Jacla said.
He hopes to see a fruition to this cause to benefit hundreds of their members in Eastern Visayas, sooner rather than later as time is ticking for the veterans.
In Eastern Visayas, the federation has at least 5,000 members from the islands of Leyte, Samar and Biliran.
In celebration of the Philippine Veterans Week, Jacla added that the VFP remains committed to honoring and supporting the veterans in the country, ensuring that their sacrifices are remembered and respected by present and future generations.
Issued through Proclamation No. 727, Philippine Veterans Week runs from April 5 to 11. The celebration is led by the Department of National Defense and the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), in partnership with other agencies such as the VFP.
(With report from the Philippine Information Agency)
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