Iloilo City, March 18, 2025 – Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB) opens its World War II Exhibit, entitled “War of Our Fathers”, on March 18, 2025 at the lobby of the Provincial Capitol Building of Iloilo to commemorate the 80th Victory Day in Panay.
In collaboration with the Provincial Government of Iloilo, the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, and the Veterans Federation of the Philippines, the exhibit pays tribute to the heroism of Filipino guerrillas from the Sixth Military District (6th MD) who secured Panay’s liberation even before the arrival of American forces in March 1945.
The heroes exhibit features rare photographs, wartime artifacts, and firsthand accounts from veterans and their families, honoring the resilience and sacrifices of Filipino freedom fighters.
“This exhibit is a testament to the valor of our veterans and the indomitable spirit of the Filipino people,” said Yul Catabran, OIC-President of PVB. “It is important to recognize that the Filipino guerillas of the 6th MD, under the leadership of Gen. Macario Peralta Jr. and other brave commanders, had already won the battle for Panay before the American forces arrived. As a bank owned by Veterans and their heirs, PVB remains committed to preserving and sharing the legacy of our nation’s heroes.”
The “War of Our Fathers” exhibit honors the unsung heroes of the Sixth Military District, including Lt. Col. Julian Chavez, Lt. Col. Ramon Offemaria, and many other guerrilla fighters. These brave men led a powerful resistance that forced the Japanese to surrender. Using clever tactics, strong teamwork, and unshakable determination, they proved that Filipinos had the strength and unity to fight for their freedom on their own.
The opening ceremony features a special tribute to surviving veterans and their families, as well as educational discussions on the role of local resistance in World War II.
The exhibit will be open to the public from March 18-30, 2025, at the Lobby of the Provincial Capitol of Iloilo.
Schools and historical institutions are encouraged to participate to gain a deeper understanding of this chapter in history.