Filipino WW II Vets on the return of Balangiga Bells to Eastern Samar

An Open Letter to the Philippine Government, and the Filipino Community
August 7, 2015

Greetings my name is Rose San Diego and I am a Filipina nurse assisting the Chicago Fil-Am WWII veterans with their advocacy in obtaining the Congressional Gold Medal along with the returning of the Balangiga Bells.

Seventy-five days ago, an exploratory study was completed on entering a major awareness campaign here in the Midwest region for Returning the Bells of Balangiga of 1901 back to Eastern Samar or to aggressively promote awarding to our Filipino WWII veterans the Congressional Gold Medal, America’s highest civilian award. It was decided to merge these dual tasks.

As a people, for centuries we have risen above many obstacles, from being conquered by foreign occupation and colonial rule of other countries, to severe disciplines and atrocities brought on by WWII’s aggressions. As a nation of determined Filipinos, we have acclaimed our independence to finally be self sovereign. Generations of past have planted the seeds for us to grow and make a humanitarian difference worldwide.

We are looking for commitment from the heart and not just a promise to volunteer, for a continued direct action approach from each Fil-Am WWII veteran and/or their families wishing to be considered for this honor or in the memory of those family relatives who had perished without receiving any accolades for their service to country. Collaboration with the Philippine Government and its agencies would be welcomed.

For further inquiries, please feel free to contact us via email: rsunrise2@aol.com

Sincerely,

Rose San Diego