Today, 25 April 2025, marks the 110th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings—the beginning of the ANZAC legend. On this day in 1915, thousands of young Australian and New Zealand soldiers stormed the shores of the Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey during World War I. Though the campaign was marked by hardship, loss, and eventual withdrawal, it became a defining moment in shaping Australia’s national identity. ANZAC Day is now commemorated to honour all Australians and New Zealanders who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.
As we stand in remembrance of the ANZACs of World War I, we also reflect on another chapter of shared military history – the strong wartime connection between Australians and Filipinos during World War II. Though they fought in different regions during the First World War, the Second World War brought them together in a powerful alliance against a common enemy in the Pacific.
Brothers in Battle: Filipino-Australian Wartime Alliance in WWII
When Japanese forces invaded the Philippines in 1941, Australian troops were already fighting across Southeast Asia. As the tides of war shifted, Australia’s attention turned toward the Pacific. Between 1944 and 1945, over 4,000 Australian soldiers, sailors, and airmen participated in the liberation of the Philippines, joining forces with Filipino guerrilla units and American troops.
The Royal Australian Navy played a significant role in the campaigns at Leyte Gulf and Lingayen Gulf, two of the largest naval operations of the Pacific War. The HMAS Australia was notably the first Allied warship to be hit by a Japanese kamikaze aircraft during the Leyte campaign in October 1944. Despite the damage, her crew remained steadfast and continued to support the Allied landing forces (Australian Embassy in the Philippines).
Australian pilots in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) conducted mine-laying missions, reconnaissance, and air support for ground troops during the Philippines campaign. Meanwhile, Filipino guerrilla forces provided critical intelligence and disrupted enemy supply lines, working closely with Australian and Allied troops to reclaim cities and villages.
A Shared Legacy of Sacrifice
The bond between the two nations is memorialised in monuments across the Philippines. In Palo, Leyte, a plaque honours the 92 Australians who gave their lives during the liberation efforts. In Lingayen, Pangasinan, historical markers commemorate the bravery of Australian naval personnel during the intense bombardments.
Many Filipino-Australians today carry the stories of parents and grandparents who witnessed or participated in these events. Their stories form a quiet but proud part of the broader story of Australia’s wartime journey.
Read: Honouring the Legacy of HMAS Australia: From Leyte Gulf to Lingayen
Read: Oldest Living Filipino WWII Veteran Recalls Bataan Death March
Modern Day Commemorations
Each year, ANZAC Day ceremonies in the Philippines and across Australia include Filipino-Australians who gather to remember and honour both ANZAC troops and Filipino veterans. At Libingan ng mga Bayani in Manila, the Australian and New Zealand Embassies host dawn services, attended by diplomats, military representatives, descendants of veterans, and Filipino citizens who pay tribute to a shared legacy of sacrifice.
In Australia, Filipino communities mark ANZAC Day with solemnity and pride, many wearing the medals of their ancestors or carrying photos of loved ones who served in the war. For them, the ANZAC spirit also carries a Filipino face.
Continuing a Spirit of Unity
Today, the Filipino-Australian relationship is no longer forged in war, but in friendship, migration, and mutual contribution. Australia and the Philippines continue to work closely on matters of defence, disaster relief, and regional cooperation. Yet behind these modern-day collaborations is a history built on sacrifice and solidarity.
This ANZAC Day, we remember not only the brave ANZACs of World War I, but also the Australian and Filipino men and women who stood together during World War II, united by courage and a longing for peace.
Lest We Forget
Their names may fade with time, but the values they stood for—courage, loyalty, resilience, and mateship—live on. As we lay wreaths and bow our heads this 25th of April, we remember all who served… and all who stood beside them. The Filipino-Australian wartime story may not always be in the spotlight, but it remains a vital and proud part of our shared history.
Lest we forget.
Sources:
- Kamikaze Attack on HMAS Australia – 1944
- Kamikaze – ANZAC Portal (Department of Veterans’ Affairs)
- Honouring the Legacy of HMAS Australia: From Leyte Gulf to Lingayen
- Oldest Living Filipino WWII Veteran Recalls Bataan Death March
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