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Serbisyo sa Beterano. Serbisyo sa Bayan.

PVAO BulletinPVAO BulletinPVAO Bulletin D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 2 V O L U M E 5 I S S U E 4

The Quarterly News Magazine of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office

The Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) marked its 40th year of service to the nation’s heroes—the Filipino veterans, last September 21, 2012 at the PVAO Covered Court, Veterans Compound, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City. The anniversary program was highlighted with milestones to improve the efficiency in the delivery of benefits and services to the veterans and their families and to propagate their heroic deeds. These included, among others, the launching of the Veterans Electronic Information System (E-VEINS) and the presentation of the “70 Years of Valor of Filipino Veterans (1942-2012)” Special Commemorative Stamps.” The E-VEINS is a computer application

designed by the Management Information Division (MID) of PVAO to provide inter-office connectivity between the PVAO Central Office in Camp Aguinaldo and its Field Service Extension Offices (FSEOs) in the regions and provinces. With E-VEINS, veterans and their dependents in the provinces need not wait longer to validate or update their pension status since the program allows authorized field officers to connect to the central database of PVAO and verify the status of claims thereby providing feedback instantly to clients. Another highlight of the PVAO Ruby Anniversary Program was the presentation of the “70 Years of Valor of Filipino Veterans (1942-2012)” Special Commemorative Stamps framed collection to various organizations of World War II veterans as a symbolic gesture of paying tribute to the veterans’ heroic deeds. The issuance of the commemorative stamps to honor the veterans is a special project undertaken by PVAO, in partnership with the Philippine Postal Corporation, to cap this year’s 70th anniversary of three major events in Philippine history– the Heroism in Bataan (April 9, 19422), the Death March (April 9-17, 1942) and the Valor in Corregidor (May 6, 2012). LtGen. Ernesto G. Carolina, PVAO Administrator, said that this year’s anniversary theme, “Ipunla ang Binhi ng Kabayanihan, Ihanda ang Beterano ng Kinabukasan,” was chosen in line with PVAO’s mission to prepare the youth to be the country’s future defenders and future leaders. Sec. Voltaire T. Gazmin, the guest of honor and speaker, was represented by Usec. Honorio S. Azcueta, Undersecretary for Defense Affairs. In his prepared speech, Sec. Gazmin lauded PVAO for “truly doing its job of ensuring the wellbeing of our veterans and for keeping their patriotic legacies ever burning in the hearts of our countrymen.” The Defense Secretary recognized the various areas in which PVAO has succeeded in manifesting government’s appreciation to the veterans, foremost of which is maintaining the integrity and accountability of the PVAO pension list and records. He underscored the value of truthful administration of pensions and benefits to the veterans and their dependents as it teaches and prepares the youth their role as future defenders. … continued on page 2

PVAO Adm. Ernesto G. Carolina and Defense Usec. Honorio S. Azcueta jointly present the framed collection of the “70 Years of Valor of Filipino Veterans (1942-2012)” Special Commemorative Stamps to Col. Francisco T. San Miguel of the VFP and other leaders of veterans organizations.

PVAO Bulletin P A G E 2

VOLUME 5, ISSUE 4 * December 2012

PVAO &VMMC Continue “PVAO &VMMC Continue “PVAO &VMMC Continue “Alay Pagkalinga at PaglilingkodAlay Pagkalinga at PaglilingkodAlay Pagkalinga at Paglilingkod” ” ”

… PVAO Marks 40th Year of Service (continued from page 1) The SND likewise highlighted the importance of conducting historical research and improving the agency’s documentation capability, particularly the publication of untold stories of past military campaigns and battlefield victories through the efforts of the Veterans Memorial Historical Division. He also expressed his support to the prudent and accountable management of veterans affairs, assets, and properties granted by the government to the veterans, which is being undertaken by the recently organized Veterans Affairs Management Division. This division ensures that all the veterans activities adhere to the common aspirations of the Filipino veterans community in fostering unity and upholding the democratic way of life. The 40th anniversary program culminated with a presentation of updates on the PVAO Veterans Records Digitization Program, which makes use of document scanning, imaging and indexing of all documents of pensioners, beneficiaries and claimants for proper document management. It will also provide onsite and off-site back-up of all claim records, facilitate easier records verification and retrieval, make the processing of all claims faster and reduce, if not altogether eradicate document fraud / alteration that is possible in human handling. ▪

For the second year, the officials and employees of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) and Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) jointly held an outreach program for patients confined at the VMMC last September 25, 2012 at the Basilio J. Valdez Hall dubbed “Alay-Pagkalinga at Paglilingkod.”

The said activity which was initiated last year as part of the 40th anniversary celebration of PVAO aims to make the veterans truly part of the celebration of the agency and make them feel the passion and dedication to service of PVAO & VMMC officials and employees to the veterans and their dependents, especially those confined in the hospital wards.

Hon. Eduardo G. Batac, Undersecretary for Civil, Veterans, and Reserve Affairs, a noted son of the late World War II veteran BGen. Gonzalo Batac AFP (Ret), again joined the outreach enthusiastically as a special guest, noting the warm reception last year of VMMC patients who were beneficiaries in the first outreach. He lauded the revitalized Veterans Hospitalization Program (VHP) which enables veterans and dependents to avail of PVAO-VMMC’s expanded medical services through partnership with 599 government hospitals nationwide. He announced the study being conducted to support a bill for the establishment of veterans hospitals in Visayas and Mindanao.

A total of 20 wheelchairs and 300 gift packs were distributed by Usec. Batac; PVAO Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina; VMMC Assistant Director, Dr. Franklin V. Gali; VMMC Chief of Professional Services, Dr. Dominador T. Chiong, and; VMMC Assistant Chief of Professional Services, Dr. Martha O. Nucum. They were assisted by division /section chiefs and employees of PVAO together with the VMMC Special Services Division headed by Ms. Remedios V. Buenafe.

The PVAO-VMMC Chorale also rendered inspirational and Christmas songs to set the festive mood for the event. After the program, USec. Batac and Administrator Carolina also visited selected wards. ▪

Personal touch: Defense Undersecretary for Civil, Veterans & Reserve Affairs Ed Batac hands down a “Pagkalinga Pack” to a veteran.

After the outreach, Usec. Batac proceeded to visit some hospital wards and conducted an inspection of VMMC’s medical facilities. He was joined by Dr. Jun Chiong, and other members of the VMMC Professional Staff.



The Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) sealed anew its partnership with Asia United Bank, Development Bank of the Philippines, Land Bank of the Philippines, Maybank Philippines, Inc., Philippine Veterans Bank, and United Coconut Planters Bank in serving the veterans and their legal beneficiaries through the Direct Remittance Pension Servicing System (DRPSS). The DRPSS makes use of the modern electronic fund transfer technology of banks for the fast, in the delivery of pensions and benefits efficient and secure delivery of pensions. Top executives of the said banks gathered under one roof and signed a uniform Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with PVAO last September 25, 2012 at AFP Commissioned Officers Club, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. Present during the signing ceremony are the following bank

officials: Mr. Eduardo I. Conde, Senior Vice President, Asia United Bank; Ms. Teresita S. Tolentino Vice President/Head, Regional Management Center – Metro Manila, Development Bank of the Philippines; Ms. Jocelyn DG. Cabreza, Senior Vice President, Branch Banking Sector, Land Bank of the Philippines; Mr. Hermino M. Famatigan, President and CEO, Maybank Philippines, Inc.; Mr. Ricardo A. Balbido, Jr., President and CEO, Philippine Veterans Bank; Ms. Natividad R. Francisco, Vice President/Region Head – East Metro Manila Region, United Coconut Planters Bank.

All of the six banks expressed their appreciation to PVAO for making them a partner in its noble endeavor of looking after the welfare of the nation’s heroes.

“We have long been aiming to get PVAO to partner with us,” said Maybank’s Mr. Famatigan who considers it an honor to serve the country through partnership with PVAO.

“In fact, our bank extends special treatment to our veteran-clients whenever they visit our branches. We attend to them in an exclusive lounge where we even offer them coffee,” noted AUB’s Mr. Conde.

Since 2009, PVAO has unilaterally implemented the DRPSS with selected servicing banks and financial institutions. This year, PVAO and its partner banks agreed to sign a uniform MOA that clearly defines the functions of both parties, adopting the recommendations of the Commission of Audit (COA) Team of PVAO.

The new MOA is a collective output of consultations with the bank authorities – with all amendments made based on consensus to improve the quality of service and convenience to pensioners. It also strengthens the partnership between PVAO and the banks for the regular monitoring of pensioners’ status, timely reporting of deaths, better bank reconciliation system and fast recovery of overpayment.

Also present during the MOA signing were Ms. Ludivina V. Daulat, State Auditor IV and PVAO Resident Auditor; members of the PVAO Executive Committee; and executives /staff of the six banking institutions . ▪

Symbolic gesture: PVAO Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina and the heads of six commercial banks placed their hands above the signed MOA, indicating their support for the DRPSS of PVAO.

Six Commercial Banks Sign MOA With PVAOSix Commercial Banks Sign MOA With PVAOSix Commercial Banks Sign MOA With PVAO PVAO Seals Agreement with PensionPVAO Seals Agreement with PensionPVAO Seals Agreement with Pension---Servicing BanksServicing BanksServicing Banks

The PVAO Bulletin is published by the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office.

For comments, questions, reactions, or literary contributions, you may write to: PVAO Strategic Communications Section - Office of the Administrator

Landline: 02-9124526 Email: [email protected], [email protected] & [email protected] Text: PVAO<space>message send to 2920 Facebook Page: Philippine Veterans Affairs Office

Last June, PVAO also renewed its partnership through a uniform MOA for direct remittance of pensions with AFPSLAI, CWSLAI, AMWSLAI executives.

The Veterans Confederation of ASEAN Countries (VECONAC) supported resolutions to advance economic cooperation and promote the welfare of veterans belonging to ASEAN nations during its 14th General Assembly and 25th Executive Board Meeting of last September 15-17, 2012 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The Philippine Delegation, as part of the Resolutions Committee, submitted ten resolutions which were unanimously approved by the Executive Board. Notable among these are Resolution No. 14-6 or the Resolution on VECONAC to Support ASEAN Cause and Resolution No. 14-10 or Addressing Fostering Economic Cooperation of ASEAN Countries. A resolution supporting the demand for compensation of widows and orphans of war veterans was also passed.

LtGen. Ernesto G. Carolina, AFP (Ret), PVAO Administrator, headed the Philippine Delegation as DND-PVAO Representative while Atty. Melosino L. Respicio, Regional Vice President of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines (VFP) headed the Resolutions Committee being a member of the VECONAC Executive Board. Hon. Herminia B. Roman, Representative of the 1st District of Bataan and Chairman of the Veterans Affairs and Welfare Committee of the 15th Congress of the Philippines also joined the delegation along with Col. Pablo Salamat (Ret), VFP Asst. Secretary General, and Ms. Antonia Del Mar, VFP Administrative Officer.

During the convention, the confederation officially accepted the membership of Myanmar War Veterans and Lao National Veterans Federation as the ninth and tenth members of VECONAC following veterans organizations from Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. Delegates from Timor Leste also participated as observers.

The meeting likewise installed Dato Muhammad bin Abdul Ghani as the new President of VECONAC for 2012-2014, vice LtGen. Rais Abin (Ret), the outgoing president. The new president urged the VECONAC members to contribute new ideas in enhancing the organization, particularly those that will forge closer ties in the economic sector of countries within the ASEAN region, to ensure the confederation moves forward.

Formed in 1980, VECONAC is an organization dedicated to the protection and promotion of the general welfare of all veterans of each member-nation. To achieve these ideals, VECONAC promotes goodwill, understanding and harmony among its members, regardless of differences in religion, language, culture, customs and traditions and provides viable solutions to problems and situations affecting the veterans in the ASEAN region.

VECONAC also empowers veterans to become self-reliant and productive citizens of their respective countries and be capable of mutually helping themselves and of supporting the cause of peace, stability and harmony not only in Southeast Asia, but elsewhere in the world.

Toward these ends, VECONAC calls and urges individual veterans and veteran organizations duly organized and accredited in the respective countries in the ASEAN region to join, support, and rally behind the confederation.

The 2013 VECONAC General Assembly will be held in Cambodia. ▪



VECONAC Supports Resolutions for ASEAN Veterans VECONAC Supports Resolutions for ASEAN Veterans VECONAC Supports Resolutions for ASEAN Veterans

Philippine Delegates (left-right): Ms. Annie Del Mar, Hon. Herminia Roman of the Philippine House of Representatives , Col. Pablo Salamat, Adm. Ernesto Carolina, and Col. Melosino Respicio.

Leaders of veterans organizations from member-nations within the ASEAN Region convene during the 14th VECONAC General Assembly.



AGFO Ladies Give “Gifts of Mobility”AGFO Ladies Give “Gifts of Mobility”AGFO Ladies Give “Gifts of Mobility”

In celebration of its 11th Anniversary, the Association of Generals and Flag Officers (AGFO) Ladies Foundation, Inc., gave “Gifts of Mobility” comprising of wheelchairs, walking canes and crutches last October 5, 2012 to soldiers and veterans who are confined at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC), AFP Medical Center and other medical facilities / station hospitals of the Armed Forces of the Philippines nationwide. The AGFO Ladies Foundation Inc. was organized by spouses of officers belonging to the AGFO.

During the opening remarks in the turn-over ceremony, Gen. Raul S. Urgello, AFP (Ret), AGFO President & Chairman, said that the adage, “It is better to give than to receive” is best applicable in donating wheelchairs, cane and crutches. “I don’t want to be a recipient of wheelchair myself, but to our soldiers whose health have suffered, these gifts would certainly of great help since they would no longer have to buy wheelchairs for their personal use,” Gen.

Urgello added. Mrs. Rita Brawner, President of the AGFO Ladies Foundation, Inc., thanked the Phi Kappa Mu Fraternity of the UP College of Medicine for donating 100 wheelchairs, the AFP for their support in transporting and hauling of donations and the AGFO ladies for their all-out support to the foundation’s endeavors. “I would consider the AGFO ladies’ brand of service as heroic because it is service for our living heroes,” Mrs. Brawner mentioned. Mrs. Rhodora Gazmin, spouse of Defense Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin, turned-over the wheelchair units for the GHQ Dispensary and the VMMC while Mrs. Ione Mison headed the turnover of wheelchairs to the AFP Medical Center and other camp hospitals. Mrs. Gloria Bautista facilitated the distribution of wheelchairs to

hospitals and facilities under the Philippine Army, including the units for Camp Teodulfo Garcia in Jolo, Sulu that was named after her late spouse. Mrs. Girlie Barroga and company led the turnover for medical facilities under the Philippine Air Force while Mrs. Nacing Perez headed the distribution of wheelchairs for Philippine Navy hospitals. Dr. Jayson Panganiban, himself a grandson of a retired general, expressed that the Phi Kappa Mu Fraternity, UP College of Medicine is pleased to have extended service to the country’s modern-day defenders and heroes.

BGen. Joselito P. Avancena, Surgeon General of the AFPMC, ended the program with a message on behalf of all the recipients. He thanked the AGFO ladies for their tireless effort to raise support for soldiers who are mostly wounded in battle as well as their families. He commended them for always doing what they can to alleviate the sufferings of soldiers, particularly for organizing variety shows for patients of AFPMC during Christmas and other occasions thereby assuring these soldiers that a lot of people value their sacrifices for the nation. ▪

Dr. Pilar Ibarra & Dir. Nostradamus A. Villanueva of PVAO and Col. Helen Nava of DND receive the wheelchair units for VMMC from Mrs. Rhodie Gazmin.

Gen. Raul S. Urgello, President & Chairman of AGFO interviewed by Bing Formento of DZRH, President of the Defense Press Corps & DWDD’s Beth Canete.

AGFO Ladies & BGen. Avancena of AFPMC thank Dr. Jayson Panganiban of the Phi Kappa Mu Fraternity, UP College of Medicine, for the “gifts of mobility.”

The indefatigable AGFO ladies who are waging their own fight as spouses - the fight for support & appreciation for soldiers.



After the formal anniversary and awarding ceremonies, PVAO employees gathered for the testimonial retirement dinner in honor of PVAO Deputy Administrator Atty. Romeo S. Lazo.

After the program, Mr. Jojo Paz of the Dynamic Outsourcing Solutions (DOS) - 1 presented an update on the PVAO Veterans Records Digitization Program launched last year.

Former PVAO Administrators graced the celebration.

Presentation of the framed collection of “70 Years of Valor of Filipino Veterans (1942-2012)” Special Commemorative Stamps to various World War II veterans organizations as a symbolic gesture of paying tribute to the veterans’ heroic deeds.



Model Employees 2012

Model Supervisors 2012

After the formal anniversary and awarding ceremonies, PVAO employees gathered for the testimonial retirement dinner in honor of PVAO Deputy Administrator Atty. Romeo S. Lazo.

PVAO Bulletin acknowledges and thanks the DND Office for Public Affairs for some of the photos used in this issue.

The agency also acknowledges the loyalty and service of retirees

An annual tradition, PVAO also recognizes its exemplary employees and dependable partners.



“PVAO Field Service Extension Offices are the eyes that see the condition of our veterans and their heirs, the ears that listen to their plight, the heart that feels their concerns and the arms of the main office that reach out to them, extending the warmth of its services, as a channel of the nation’s gratitude.” - Ms. Raquel Abrera Cajuguiran, Chief, Claims Division Orientation Seminar for Field Personnel Cloud 9 Resort/Sports & Leisure Club, Antipolo City, 21 July 2010

With 70% of PVAO pensioners based outside Metro Manila, compounded with the geographical and topographical distance of provinces from the central office in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, PVAO has been maintaining 12 regional and 13 provincial offices nationwide. Formerly known as Field Offices and Field Teams, these offices have been officially renamed as Field Service Extension Offices, underscoring “service” as pledged by their names, and “extension” signifying that these offices have been vested the authority, responsibility and accountability by the main office to perform functions otherwise would have been provided only by the main office. Certain levels of authority have been devolved and functions decentralized to give pensioners and their families better access to PVAO’s services. As front-liners in the field, these offices examine the authenticity and completeness of claim documents; evaluate and review of pension applications; assist and address follow-ups/queries of walk-in claimants and callers; evaluate requests for change of address, transfer of bank as well as bank remittance enrolment of pensioners; issue certifications to pensioners; conduct on-site visit and investigations to pensioners and claimants; issue memorial flags to families of deceased veteran pensioners; monitor pensioners’ status and report pensioners’ death or remarriage; conduct regular visits to accredited government, pension servicing banks and schools where PVAO scholars / student wards are enrolled; coordinate with local government units and dialogue with leaders/members of veterans' organizations; spearhead commemorations and observances of historical events highlighting the significant role of veterans in national / local history; hold information dissemination campaign, civic actions , outreach events; among others.

Field Service Extension Office 1 San Fernando, La Union (072) 700-

0032 Provincial Bldg., Vigan City, Ilocos Sur Batac, Ilocos Norte (077) 792-2093

Field Service Extension Office 2 Tuguegarao City (078) 844-7095 Nueva Vizcaya (078) 321-2619

Field Service Extension Office CAR Baguio City (074) 442-4711

Bontoc, Mt. Province (074) 462-4302 Field Service Extension Office 3

San Fernando, Pampanga (045) 961-7915

Dagupan City (075) 515-4491 Tarlac City (045) 982-6255

Field Service Extension Office 4 Batangas City (043) 722-2219 Lucena City (045) 982-6255

Tanza, Cavite (0928) 255-9603 Liliw, Laguna (0915) 403-0177

Field Service Extension Office 5 Legaspi City (052) 245-5153

Virac, Catandanues (052) 811-0573 Field Service Extension Office 6

Iloilo City (033) 337-1351 Bacolod City (034) 434-5219

San Jose, Antique (0919) 226-7621

Field Service Extension Office 7

Cebu City (032) 232-0273 Tagbilaran City (038) 411-4535

Dumaguete City (035) 226-2602 Field Service Extension Office 8

Tacloban City (053) 321-2162 Catbalogan, Samar (055)251-2513 Field Service Extension Office 9 Zamboanga City (062) 983-0711

Field Service Extension Office 10 Cagayan De Oro City (088) 350-2151

Field Service Extension Office 11 Magsaysay Park, Davao City

In-house Basic Finger-Printing (Dactyloscopy) Course for FSEOs



Given the vast, diverse and significant roles of FSEOs for the accomplishment of PVAO’s missions, the PVAO management has invested in capability-building and human resources development of its field officers through relevant trainings, seminars and workshops. FSEOs were also relocated to government centers in regions and provinces thereby affording claimants and pensioners ready and easy access to various forms of services from other national and local government offices. To improve further the performance of field officers, repairs and renovations of office buildings have been undertaken to improve the work environment of its front-liners as well as the convenience of the clients. Likewise, they were provided with better information and communication equipment such as desktop computers with internet access, printers, mobile phones , fax machines among others. Recently, the Veterans Electronic Information System (E-VEINS), a computer application designed by the Management Information Division (MID) of PVAO, has been installed in FSEOs to provide inter-office connectivity between the PVAO Central Office in Camp Aguinaldo and its Field Service Extension Offices (FSEOs) in the regions and provinces. With E-VEINS, our veterans and their dependents in the provinces need not wait longer to validate or update their pension status since the program allows authorized field officers to connect to the central database of PVAO and verify the status of claims thereby enabling field units to provide instant feedback to clients.

PVAO FSEO employees participate in the Customer Relations and Public Service with a Smile Seminar.

In-house Basic Finger-Printing (Dactyloscopy) Course for FSEOs

Installation of E-VEINS

Field personnel complete the Document Authenticity & Appreciation Course with Col. Emmanuel A. Sinogba, GSC, Chief, Non-Current Records Division—OTAG, as one of the speakers

PVAO Bulletin P A G E 1 0


Aside from its field service extension offices in regions and provinces in the country, the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office also maintains an extension office overseas—the Office of Veterans Affairs (OVA) located at the Philippine Embassy, 1600 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington DC, USA. Headed by MGen. Delfin N. Lorenzana, AFP (Ret), former Defense Attache to the US, among OVA’s main functions is to serve the clientele of PVAO who are based in the United States—the veterans and their surviving spouses who receive and claim pension from the agency. Notably, it is the only satellite office of PVAO outside the Philippines as it was established to be at the forefront of the crusade for “Equity” or equal benefits and privileges for Filipino-American World War II veterans from the US Government, similar to the benefits being given by the US government to World War II veterans of 51 other nationalities. These benefits were promised by Pres. Franklin D. Roosevelt when Filipinos were conscripted to serve in the Allied Forces in the beginning of World War II but were later rescinded with the enactment of public laws by the US Congress during the term of Pres. Harry Truman.

FVEC UPDATE On 17 February 2009, the FVEC Fund was signed into law with an initial appropriation of $198 million under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). An additional $67 million was appropriated in July 2010 for a total of $265 million. This fund provides a one-time lump sum payment of $15,000 Filipino WW2 veterans who are US citizens and $ 9,000 to non-US citizens.

CERTIFICATION ISSUE As of August 2012, some 24,000 claims were denied comprising 56% of the 43,083 surviving veterans who filed their claims under the compensation fund. The disqualification issue stemmed from the implementing guidelines issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs in 2011 requiring certification from the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) that the names of veteran-claimants appear in both the Roster of Troops and the Discharge List prepared by the US Army at the end of the Second World War . However, there are other legitimate sources of Filipino World War II records in the Philippines and in the USA and it is the position of PVAO that being in any of the list shown hereunder is sufficient proof of World War II military service, in keeping with the true spirit for which the FVEC fund was legislated.

COMMONWEALTH ARMY

(Jul ‘41- Jul ‘46)

GUERILLAS

(1942-46)

Commission/Enlistment

Records

Induction Papers

Roster of Troops* Guerrilla Unit Rosters

1946 Discharge papers* 1946 Discharge papers*

Missing Personnel

Recovered

1948 ARRGR (Approved

Revised Recognized

Guerrilla Roster)*

Records of salary payments

& Back Pays

Records of salary pay-

ments & Back Pays

Combat Medals and

Awards by US Army

Combat Medals and

Awards by US Army

* Currently being used by the NPRC

Source: Center for Minority Veterans Website, US Dept. of Veterans Affairs

Status Number Percentage (%) Funds Remaining

Pending Claims (Reopened)

171 .40%

Claims Granted ($9,000) 9,462 $ 85.158M 22%

43.4%

Claims Granted ($15,000)

9,236 $138.540M 21.40%

Total Funds Granted ($265M)

$223.698M 84.41% $41.302M (15.59%)

Claims Denied 24,385 56.65%

Notices of Disagreement 4,507 10.5%

Claims Completed 43,083 100%



MGen. Lorenzana AFP (Ret) with Filipino World War II veterans during the Gala Night at the American Veterans Center

Collaboration Issue PVAO also makes strong representation at the USDVA Manila Regional Office to thresh out other issues that matter on the approval or disapproval of veterans’ FVEC claims such as the loyalty issue. Claims of some veterans either remain pending up to now or have been denied due to alleged collaboration with the Japanese during World War II. The list of collaborators, however, has common names identical to those who have pending claim (i.e. Gen. Ernesto S. Mata, former Secretary of National Defense; and Dr. Godofredo S. Reyes, former Assemblyman and Governor of Ilocos Sur, now both deceased).

Payment of FVEC to Heirs of Deceased Veterans

PVAO also appeals to the USDVA to allow payment of approved FVEC claims to the legal beneficiary or compulsory heir of a deceased veteran in case the late veteran’s spouse is already deceased. According to the USDVA Manila Regional Office, approved FVEC claims are paid only to living World War II veterans or their surviving spouses in case the veterans died during the pendency of his claim. If the spouse predeceased the veteran, the check is cancelled and the fund is reverted to the US Treasury. The FVEC guidelines does not have any provision on making payments to the legal heirs / nearest kin of deceased veterans.

US White House Creates Inter-Agency Group On October 17, 2012, Presidential Assistant Chris Lu, Co-Chair of WHIAAPI, announced that US President Barack Obama has ordered the White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, in collaboration with the Office of Management and Budget, to create an Interagency Working Group comprised of officials from the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Defense, and the National Archives and Record Administration. According to the Press Statement, the Interagency Working Group will be tasked with analyzing the process faced by these Filipino veterans in demonstrating eligibility for compensation in order to ensure that all applications receive thorough and fair review. Mr. Liu described the move as part of the Obama Administration's ongoing efforts to honor the contributions of all veterans in their service to the United States.

COMMONWEALTH ARMY

(Jul ‘41- Jul ‘46)

GUERILLAS

(1942-46)

Commission/Enlistment

Records

Induction Papers

Roster of Troops* Guerrilla Unit Rosters

1946 Discharge papers* 1946 Discharge papers*

Missing Personnel

Recovered

1948 ARRGR (Approved

Revised Recognized

Guerrilla Roster)*

Records of salary payments

& Back Pays

Records of salary pay-

ments & Back Pays

Combat Medals and

Awards by US Army

Combat Medals and

Awards by US Army 10th National Empowerment Conference of the National Federation of Filipino-American Association (NaFFAA) in Detroit, Michigan on

August 3-5, 2012

The Honorable Voltaire T. Gazmin, Secretary of National Defense, during his official visit to Washington D.C., USA last May 2012

The Philippine Veterans Affairs Office joined the people of Ifugao in commemorating the 67th Victory Day Celebration on September 1-2, 2012 at the Bantayog sa Kiangan, Brgy. Linda, Kiangan, Ifugao with the theme, “Remembering with Pride, Ensuring Freedom Will Last.”

“Victory Day” is celebrated during September 2 of each year as the day of capture of Gen. Tomoyuki Yamashita, the Over-All Commander of the Imperial Japanese Army in World War II, by Filipino guerrillas belonging to the 14th Infantry Regiment of the United States Army Forces in the Philippines – Northern Luzon (USAFIP-NL). This historic event formally ended the

Japanese occupation not only in the Philippines but also in the Pacific region. The Americans, however, commemorate September 3 – the day when Gen. Yamashita, Vice Admiral Denhichi Okochi, his counterpart in the Navy and other officers of the Command Staff, were brought to the High Commissioner’s Residence in Camp John Hay, Baguio for the signing of the surrender documents.

Hon. Teodoro “Teddy” B. Baguilat, Jr., Representative of the Lone District of Ifugao, was the Guest of Honor of the commemorative event. Joining him were Vice-Governor Pedro G. Mayam-o; Kiangan Mayor Joselito G. Guyguyon; Vice Mayor Roel Francis A. Dunluan; Dr. Ana Maria Theresa P. Labrador, Assistant Executive Director of the National Museum; and officials from the Philippine National Police, academe, Girl Scouts of the Philippines, Boy Scouts of the Philippines.

PVAO Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina was joined by selected Division Chiefs and Field Service Extension personnel of PVAO who attended to the queries and concerns of pensioners from Ifugao and neighboring provinces. Ms. Ludivina V. Daulat, State Auditor IV and PVAO Resident Auditor, and staff also participated in the event after conducting a cash count and inventory at the Kiangan Shrine and the PVAO Field Service Extension Office No. 2 in Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya.

In his inspirational message, Administrator Carolina lauded the people of Ifugao for nurturing their customs and traditions and cherishing their bond as a community. He also commended the local government and the organizers of the 67th Victory Day as this is a source of pride that should be celebrated by all freedom-loving Filipinos all over the country and not only by the province. He urged Rep. Baguilat to sponsor a bill in Congress proclaiming the Victory Day in Kiangan as a national holiday in order for it to have the same significance as the Araw ng Kagitingan or National Heroes Day. The PVAO Administrator also emphasized that the triumph of Filipino freedom-fighters in Kiangan was connected with the other victories of Filipino freedom fighters elsewhere in Luzon and other parts of the country. He culminated his speech by donating to the municipal library of Kiangan five sets each of the books “The Freedom Fighters of Northern Luzon: An Untold Story” and “Victory in Northern Luzon,” authored by Col. Cesar P. Pobre, Ph.D, MNSA, a retired military historian. Both books are publications of PVAO and are products of historical research.



The Administrator donating PVAO-published books to the Kiangan Municipal Library.

Rep. Baguilat, in response, thanked the PVAO Administrator and his party for joining the people of Ifugao in celebrating the 67th Victory Day in Kiangan. He said he had already filed a bill in the House of Representatives that proclaims the Kiangan Victory Day as a national holiday. However, the date September 2 conflicts with the date of commemoration by the City of Baguio as the latter celebrates September 3 as Victory Day. Nonetheless, he assured the audience that he is already threshing out the matter with Baguio Mayor Mauricio Domogan. He also committed to further develop the area of the Kiangan Shrine as the heart of Ifugao’s rich culture and history.

The Kiangan Shrine is one of the seven national military shrines being maintained and developed by the PVAO. The 3.8 hectare-lot

was declared a national military shrine pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 1460, series of 1975.

During the first day, September 1, 2012, a Commemorative Mass and a Candle Lighting Ceremony were held to honor the freedom fighters of the country. The venue for both events was the Home Econnomics Building in Kiangan Central School, the exact site where Gen. Yamashita and his men were captured 67 years ago. The local government also organized the “Bakle ad Linda,” a mini-agro trade fair for residents and visitors. A photography contest, medical mission and a parade were also held. Col Benigno R. Antonio II INF (GSC) PA, Group Commander, 2RCDG, ARESCOM was the special guest in the program that ensued after the parade while Gov. Eugene M. Balitang, a Reserve Officer with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and Battalion Executive Officer, was the guest of honor.

A significant number of World War II veterans, the honorees in the event, graced the program. Some of them were from various chapters of veterans’ organizations in Ifugao and Nueva Vizcaya while the others like the 66th Infantry Regiment of the USAFIL – NL came all the way from the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), particularly, Baguio City and Abra. ▪



The PVAO Administrator and other guests trying the steps of a native Ifugao Dance to the beat of a “gong.” Local executives of the province of Ifugao and municipality of

Kiangan led the community dance.

A, PVAO with Word War II veterans of Region 2 & CAR.

Student performers re-enact the Battle in Kiangan and the capture of Gen. Yamashita by the 14th Infantry Regiment, USAFIP-NL guerrillas.



MATTERS THAT MATTER TO VETERANS: Stoppage of Pension

In line with the Social Contract of Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III with the Filipino people which promotes among others Transparent, Accountable, and Participatory Governance, the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) continuously endeavors to improve the integrity of its pensioners list by way of the annual PVAO Revalidation Program. Temporary stoppage of pensions is enforced when pensioners fail to update their status due to any of the following reasons:

Reasons Requirements for Resumption

Change of Address Without Prior Notice

PVAO annually sends a Pensioner’s Update Form (PUF) and/or Revalidation Form to our pensioners through the addresses they indicated in their application form. However, if the pensioner has changed address and thus unable to receive the forms, this causes the delay (if not, failure) of submission on the part of the pensioner. Make sure to update PVAO by simply writing a letter informing us of any change in address.

Returned Notice of Revalidation Returned Pensioner’s Update Form (PUF)

Revalidation and mailing of PUF is done on the birth month of the pensioner. If you have not received any on your birth month, please call the Veterans Records and Management Division at 986-1983 or download a PUF at www.pvao.mil.ph.

1. Barangay Clearance 2. Picture holding latest newspaper 3. Photocopy of any valid ID 4. Secure Identity Form* and 5. Thumbprint Form* from PVAO *The forms are available in all PVAO FSEOs.

Blocked / Non-Moving Accounts

Part of PVAO’s partnership with the pension-servicing banks in safeguarding the pensioner’s account is to require the pensioners to update their status with the banks through account/signature updating every 3 months for Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB) and 6 months for other pension-servicing banks.

Failure to do so causes stoppage of pension remittance.

1. Certificate/Letter from the bank that their account is active (complied to the bank’s updating procedures)

2. Picture holding latest newspaper 3. Photocopy of passbook/ATM 4. Photocopy of PVAO Pensioner’s ID 5. Photocopy of Claims Application Form 6. Accomplished PUF

Report of Re-marriage

The pensions granted to the surviving spouse of a veteran is valid until he/she remarries or dies. PVAO will immediately suspend the pension of a veteran’s spouse after verification of a report of re-marriage.

1. Personal appearance of the pensioner 2. Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) from NSO. However, if the spouse indeed contracted subsequent marriage, her pension will be terminated with finality.

Report of Death

All the pensions granted to a veteran is valid until his/her death. PVAO will immediately suspend the pension of a veteran after verification of a report of his/her death.

1. Personal appearance of the pensioner (If the pensioner cannot appear personally due to poor physical or health conditions, home visit may be requested from PVAO and a picture holding latest newspaper may be submitted) 2. Secure Identity Form* and 3. Thumbprint Form from PVAO*

Through PVAO’s partnership with the National Statistics Office (NSO), a data-base matching has been facilitated to cross reference the status of pensioners from the indices of all deceased Filipinos since 2004. This is to confirm

the living status of pensioners and consequently purge from the pension masterlist those whose names appear in the NSO list of deceased individuals. Based on the results, more than 9,000 pensioners match the names of deceased individuals in the NSO database. In case of error/discrepancy in the matching, affected pensioners are advised to visit the nearest PVAO extension office and/or submit the following documents to PVAO, (Attn: Claims Division) PVAO Compound, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City:

1. Properly filled-up Pensioner’s Update Form (PUF) with a picture of the pensioner holding the latest broadsheet/newspaper 2. Photocopy of your personal copy of the approved application for pension 3. Photocopy of your PVAO ID or any Government-Issued ID 4. Certification from the Captain of the barangay where you reside, attesting that the person reported to have been deceased by the

NSO is a different individual.

Revalidation

Update



His Excellency Hyuk Lee, the new Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Philippines, assured that the Republic of Korea will continue to provide benefits—particularly educational scholarship—for veterans of the Philippine Expeditionary Force to Korean (PEFTOK) and their descendants during the Korean War Veterans of the Philippines Memorial Day held last September 7, 2012.

Signifying his country's gratitude for the Filipinos’ contribution to their democracy, Ambassador Lee was present at the two-part commemorative event held separately at the Korean War Memorial Pylon inside the Libingan ng mga Bayani and at the PEFTOK Korean War Memorial Hall, both in Taguig City.

With the theme, “Pilipinong Beterano ng Digmaang Korea ay Marangal, Magalang, at Matapat,” the event re-lived the sterling qualities of patriotism, courage, and steadfast dedication to duty of

PEFTOK veterans that made the Filipinos of their generation one of the greatest in our history.

Gen. Jessie D. Dellosa AFP, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), led the wreath-laying ceremony as the guest of honor and speaker. General Dellosa is a son of a PEFTOK veteran, Cpl. Freedom Dellosa, who was part of the 14th Battalion Combat Team (BCT). Recognizing that the gallantry and heroism of his father served as his inspiration in fulfilling his sworn duty to the country, Dellosa said, “Isang malaking karangalan sa akin ang maging anak ng isang bayani.”

LtGen. Emmanuel T. Bautista AFP, Commanding General of the Philippine Army, another son of a PEFTOK veteran, headed the second part of the memorial program as the guest of honor and speaker. Bautista is a son of the late Gen. Teodulfo Bautista who joined the 14th BCT of PEFTOK as a young first lieutenant. LtGen. Bautista likewise highlighted the significance of the country’s first international military contingent, which served as a forerunner for the present and future AFP contingents overseas. He also reaffirmed the commitment of the Philippine Army to the strong bilateral relationship between the two countries.

Meanwhile, former President Fidel V. Ramos (PFVR), the most distinguished PEFTOK veteran, was conferred with an Award of Highest Distinction as an outstanding PEFTOK veteran. In receiving his award, PFVR said that he is most proud of this recognition since, before he was ‘somebody,’ he was a 2nd lieutenant fighting in an unknown land. He shared how, during the war, the poor in Korea was blasted to the grounds and yet in a span of two generations, South Korea is no longer a beneficiary but a donor and a member of the G20, the prominent group of 20 highly progressive nation-states. For him, the gathering is a reunion and strengthening of partnership as both the Republic of Korea and the Philippines share the goals of achieving enduring peace and sustainable development for the next generations.

The first PEFTOK BCT reached South Korea on September 1950. Their mission was to defend the Republic of Korea against North Korea’s communist aggression.

The PEFTOK Memorial Day has been held annually since 1999 after former President Joseph Estrada declared the 7th of September as the Korean War Veterans of the Philippines Memorial Day through Proclamation No. 353.▪

Korean Ambassador Assures Scholarship for PEFTOK DescendantsKorean Ambassador Assures Scholarship for PEFTOK DescendantsKorean Ambassador Assures Scholarship for PEFTOK Descendants

Two generations: Col. Paterno Viloria (Ret),Ph.D., President of the PEFTOK Veterans Association, Inc. (PVAI), welcomes the sons of PEFTOK veterans—Gen. Jessie D. Dellosa AFP, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and LtGen. Emmanuel T. Bautista AFP, Commanding General of the Philippine Army.

Most outstanding PEFTOK veteran: Former President Fidel V. Ramos received the award from PVAO Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina, PVAI President Col. Paterno Viloria (Ret), and South Korea Ambassador Hyuk Lee.

Grateful nation: Amb. Lee talks to Col. Vicente Alhambra, one of the oldest living PEFTOK veteran at the age of 96.

BE COUNTED.BE COUNTED.BE COUNTED. Add to the Voice of the Filipino Veterans.Add to the Voice of the Filipino Veterans.Add to the Voice of the Filipino Veterans.

JOIN THE JOIN THE JOIN THE VETERANS FEDERATION OF THE PHILIPPINESVETERANS FEDERATION OF THE PHILIPPINESVETERANS FEDERATION OF THE PHILIPPINES...

“The Federation shall uphold and defend the democratic way of life as envisioned in the Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines; to represent and to defend the interests of all Filipino veterans; to coordinate the efforts of all different veterans of the Philippines in behalf of the interests of respective members; to promote mutual help among former comrade-in-arms; to perpetuate their common experiences in war; to undertake acts of charity and relief work; to preserve peace and order; to foster love of country and things Filipino and inculcate individual civic consciousness. In general, the Federation shall exist solely for purposes of a benevolent character, and not for pecuniary profit of its members.” - Sec. 4, Republic Act No. 2640 or “An Act to Create a Public Corporation to be Known as the Veterans Federation of the Philippines, Defining its Powers, and for other Purpose”

A Clarion Call for:

World War II Veterans who have not applied yet

Post World War II Veterans / AFP Retirees

Surviving Spouses who are PVAO pensioners

Log-on to the official website of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines at www.vfp.ph for the membership form & other information. Forms are also available at the VETERANS AFFAIRS MANAGEMENT DIVISION (VAMD), PVAO.

A Clarion Call for:

World War II Veterans who have not applied yet

Post World War II Veterans / AFP Retirees

Surviving Spouses who are PVAO pensioners

pvao bulletin - server.pvao.mil.phserver.pvao.mil.ph/pdf/bulletin/2012/pvao bulletin -...

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