The Visayan Association of Australia Inc. (VAA) marked the 81st anniversary of the Leyte Gulf Landings on 18 October 2025 at All Saints Parish Hall, Liverpool.
The solemn commemoration honoured the late General Douglas MacArthur’s famous promise — “I shall return” — which symbolised the liberation of the Philippines from Japanese occupation. Speakers highlighted the Battle of Leyte Gulf as one of the greatest naval battles in history, paying tribute to the allied forces who sacrificed their lives for freedom.
VAA’s president Jhun Salazar reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to keeping the memory alive, noting that the event serves as a reminder of the cost of war and the value of peace — lessons to be passed on to future generations.
The ceremony featured the Parade of Colours and the singing of the national anthems of Australia, the United States, and the Philippines. Fr. Paul Monkerud, parish priest of All Saints and St. Therese, led the Invocation and joined Consul General Charmaine Aviquivil in the lighting of the Candle inside the Wreath of Remembrance.
An audio-visual presentation of General MacArthur’s radio message followed, leading into wreath-laying and flower offerings by dignitaries and guests — a heartfelt gesture of respect and remembrance.
Over 150 guests attended the event, including Consul General Aviquivil, Consul Sheila Marie Tario, Vice Consul Diana Marie Jimenez-Leomo, Federal MPs Anne Stanley (Werriwa) and Dai Le (Fowler), State MP Charishma Kaliyanda (Liverpool), former MP Paul Lynch, Major Tom Baena, Ms Carol North-Samardzic, and Fr. Monkerud.
Entertainment was provided by Fe Limjap (who also served as emcee), Jenina Cotelo, and Ezekiel Jeremiah Yunon, with the Visayan Association Dance Troupe delivering a colourful and lively performance.
Article by Richard J. Ford, PRO, Visayan Association of Australia Inc.
