In a powerful display of gratitude and remembrance, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. honored the bravery of Filipino soldiers who fought in the Korean War, capping off his four-day visit to South Korea for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit. But here's where it gets emotional—this tribute wasn't just a ceremonial gesture; it was a profound acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by 7,420 Filipino troops who served under the United Nations Command from 1950 to 1955. Accompanied by First Lady Liza Marcos, the President led a solemn wreath-laying ceremony and tree-planting activity at the United Nations Memorial Cemetery in Busan, where some of these heroes are laid to rest. And this is the part most people miss—the Philippines was the first Southeast Asian nation to deploy combat troops to Korea, a fact that South Korean President Lee Jae-myung highlighted during their bilateral meeting, calling the Philippines a “special friend.” Lee’s words were poignant: “The Korean people have not forgotten the Philippines’ contribution, dedication, and sacrifice during the war.” But here’s where it gets controversial—while the Philippines’ role is celebrated, how much do we truly know about the individual stories of these soldiers? Their experiences, struggles, and legacies often remain untold. Earlier in his trip, Marcos also engaged with South Korean business leaders and defense firms, including Hanwha Ocean and DL Group, exploring partnerships in submarine technology and energy projects. As the First Couple returned to Manila, the question lingers: How can we ensure these heroes’ stories are preserved and their sacrifices never forgotten? What do you think—are we doing enough to honor their legacy? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
