A MULTI-SECTORAL crowd gathered at the Clark Veterans Cemetery over the previous weekend in remembrance of the friendship between Filipinos and Americans and the heroism of war veterans, Philippine scouts and American servicemen.

Officials from Clark Development Corp. (CDC), the city governments of Angeles and Mabalacat, the United States Embassy, the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC), and members and families of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2485 attended the annual event at Clark Veterans Cemetery.

In her speech, representing CDC President and CEO Agnes Devanadera, CDC Vice President for Security Services Group retired police general Lina Sarmiento said the Clark Veterans

Cemetery tells stories of sacrifice and courage.

“We’re reminded that heroism goes beyond borders. In this resting place, liberty connects us all. Known and unknown heroes here show us the essence of sacrifice and unity. Let’s reflect on this sacred ground, where history echoes with remembrance,” Sarmiento said.

“The unknown soldiers buried here, their identities lost to time, teach us that freedom’s sacrifices are often anonymous yet profound. They are silent guardians of liberty, urging us to strive for a world of peace and justice. In the shadow of these sacred grounds, let’s pledge to carry the torch of freedom forward. May the flags at Clark Cemetery be a beacon of hope, reminding us that united, we stand as guardians of liberty and stewards of a lasting legacy,” she added.

In January 2013, US President Barack Obama signed the Dignified Burial and Other Veterans’ Benefits Improvement Act (Public Law 112-260), directing ABMC to oversee Clark Veterans Cemetery. Interments at the cemetery date back to the Philippine-American War (1899-1902), with varying historical sources on the earliest burials.