National Heroes’ Day, Battle of Wakalan commemorated in Bontoc

BONTOC – The Provincial Government, together with the Mountain Province Provincial Police Office (MPPPO), veterans of the Philippines – Mountain Province Chapter, family of Lt. Geronimo F. Montes, representatives from the Office of the Congressman and the governor, MPSU Criminology Interns, and other guests, commemorated the National Heroes’ Day and the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of Wakalan in a fitting program August 25, 2025 at the Camp Geronimo Montes compound here.
The event was to localize the commemoration by citing the Battle of Wakalan, between Bontoc and Tocucan, when Lt. Geronimo F. Montes led an assault into the way of Japanese enemies in June 4, 1945. This was to avert the enemies in proceeding to Kalinga.
However, this caused the death of Lt. Montes who was a Samoki gentleman and an officer but reportedly led then Gen. Tomoyuki Yamashita to change route to Kiangan, Ifugao where he was captured. This led to the end of World War II.
Philippine National Police Provincial Director Col. Ferdinand N. Oydoc delivered the welcome remarks, followed by the reading of the Brief Biography of Lt. Montes by his grandchild Ms. Arleen Eickmee F. Gasmena, and the camp history by PLTCOL Bernardo K Wong.
During the program, representatives of local leaders shared messages of remembrance and encouragement, they emphasized the importance of honoring the courage and selfless acts of our heroes in safeguarding our nation and building a better tomorrow.
Provincial Administrator John K. Likigan represented Governor Bonifacio C. Lacwasan Jr. and Erlindo Agwilang Jr. represented Congressman Maximo Y. Dalog Jr.
Keynote Speaker Ms. Cherrilyn Sabling from the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO)- CAR Field Office shared the history of the Battle of Wakalan, cited the significance of the war. She narrated the circumstances surrounding the war including the personalities involved.
“We want to remember the significance of the Battle of Wakalan by making it as a tourism magnet and for the historical heritage enthusiast, the tomb of Montes it could be made as a shrine in addition to the bust and marker at Camp Montes”, she insinuated.
Ms. Sabling later donated “World War II” books to the provincial government through Mr. Sacyaten as additional resource books in the proposed historical museum. She was likewise presented a token of appreciation.
The closing remarks were delivered by Col. Paulo P. Pagteilan, the president of the Veterans of Mountain Province. **ROGER SACYATEN with reports from Jenny Gumgum-o